Cool MateDetain
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.