Detain Meaning: Definition, Examples, and Translations
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detain
[dɪˈteɪn ]
Definitions
law enforcement
To keep someone in official custody, typically for questioning or investigation.
Synonyms
apprehend, arrest, confine, hold.
Which Synonym Should You Choose?
| Word | Description / Examples |
|---|---|
| detain |
Used when someone is temporarily held back or delayed, often by law enforcement to ask questions or for minor offenses.
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| arrest |
Used when law enforcement takes someone into custody because of suspected criminal activity. It often involves formal charges.
|
| apprehend |
Used when law enforcement catches or captures someone who is a suspect or criminal.
|
| hold |
Used in various situations where someone or something is kept in place, either physically or metaphorically.
|
| confine |
Used when someone or something is restricted to a certain area, often for safety, health, or disciplinary reasons.
|
Examples of usage
- They were detained by the police for further questioning.
- The suspect was detained at the border for further investigation.
immigration
To prevent someone from leaving a place, especially a country.
Synonyms
Which Synonym Should You Choose?
| Word | Description / Examples |
|---|---|
| detain |
Used when someone is kept in official custody, usually by law enforcement or authorities, temporarily restricting their freedom.
|
| confine |
Used when someone or something is restricted within specific limits or boundaries, often implying a more permanent or serious restriction.
|
| hold back |
Can imply emotionally or physically restricting someone or something, often informally. It suggests hesitation or prevention from doing something.
|
| delay |
Used when an event or action is postponed or slowed down, often causing inconvenience but not necessarily implying any restriction of freedom.
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Examples of usage
- She was detained at the airport due to visa issues.
- The immigrant was detained by immigration authorities.
Translations
To see the translation, please select a language from the options available.
Interesting Facts
Legal Context
- In law, detainment is often related to police keeping someone in custody for questioning.
- Different laws exist worldwide for how long a person can be detained without formal charges.
- Detainment should not be confused with arrest; while all arrests involve detaining, not all detainments are arrests.
Pop Culture
- Films often depict detainment scenarios, such as crime thrillers where characters are held for interrogation.
- Television shows sometimes dramatize wrongful detainment, raising awareness about legal rights and justice.
- Music often uses the theme of feeling trapped or detained to symbolize emotional or societal restriction.
Psychology
- The experience of being detained can lead to feelings of anxiety and frustration.
- Studies show that how long someone is detained may affect their mental health and attitude towards authority.
- Understanding the psychology of compliance can provide insight into why some comply with detainment.
Human Rights
- Detainment without due process is a significant issue in discussions about human rights.
- Organizations like Amnesty International monitor cases of unlawful detainment globally.
- Public protests often arise against policies seen as promoting unjust detainment practices.
Origin of 'detain'
Main points about word origin
- The word comes from the Latin 'detinere', which means to hold back or restrain.
- The prefix 'de-' suggests removal, while 'tain' links to 'tenere' meaning to hold.
- This term has been used in English since the 15th century, originally referring to holding someone against their will.
The word 'detain' originates from the Old French word 'detenir', which means 'to hold, keep back'. It has been used in English since the 15th century. Over time, the meaning of the word has evolved to refer to holding someone in official custody, particularly by law enforcement or immigration authorities.
See also: detained, detainee, detainees, detainment, detention.