C1verbformal2K

Detain

UK /["/dɪˈteɪn/","/dɪˈteɪnz/","/dɪˈteɪnd/","/dɪˈteɪnɪŋ/"]/US /["/dɪˈteɪn/","/dɪˈteɪnz/","/dɪˈteɪnd/","/dɪˈteɪnɪŋ/"]/

Definition

to keep somebody in an official place, such as a police station, a prison or a hospital, and prevent them from leaving

In simple words: To keep someone in a place, usually by the police, so they cannot leave.

Examples

  • The police decided to detain the suspect for further questioning.
  • Authorities may detain travelers who do not have the proper documentation.
  • Security officers can detain individuals who pose a threat to public safety.
  • She was detained at the airport because of an expired visa.
  • The officers detained the protester to maintain order during the demonstration.

Usage notes

Used in legal and police contexts. Be careful using it informally; it's not common in everyday conversations about delays or waiting.

Grammar pattern

detain + object

Memory hint

Sounds like 'the-tain' — imagine the police 'taining' (holding) someone back.

Collocations

  • briefly
  • indefinitely
  • illegally
  • need not
  • for
  • in connection with
  • be detained in custody
  • be detained in hospital
  • detain somebody without charge

Synonyms

  • hold
  • arrest
  • imprison
  • confine
  • seize

Antonyms

  • release
  • free
  • liberate

Common mistakes

  • Confused with 'retain' which means to keep possession of something.
  • Using 'detain' when referring to someone simply waiting, instead of being held by authority.
  • Incorrectly using 'detain' without specifying who is being detained.