Detain: meaning, definitions and examples
⛓️
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.
|
| 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.
|
Examples of usage
- She was detained at the airport due to visa issues.
- The immigrant was detained by immigration authorities.
Interesting Facts
Etymology
- 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.
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.
Translations
Translations of the word "detain" in other languages:
🇵🇹 deter
🇮🇳 गिरफ्तार करना
🇩🇪 festnehmen
🇮🇩 menahan
🇺🇦 затримувати
🇵🇱 zatrzymać
🇯🇵 拘束する (こうそくする)
🇫🇷 détenir
🇪🇸 detener
🇹🇷 gözaltına almak
🇰🇷 구금하다
🇸🇦 احتجاز
🇨🇿 zadržet
🇸🇰 zadržať
🇨🇳 拘留 (jūliú)
🇸🇮 aretirati
🇮🇸 handtaka
🇰🇿 ұстау
🇬🇪 დაკავება
🇦🇿 saxlamaq
🇲🇽 detener