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Detained: meaning, definitions and examples

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detained

 

[dɪˈteɪnd ]

Definitions

Context #1 | Verb

in custody

Detained means to be kept in official custody, usually by the police or other authorities. It implies that the person is not free to leave and is being held for questioning, investigation, or legal procedures.

Synonyms

apprehended, arrested, held.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

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Word Description / Examples
detained

This term is generally used when someone is stopped or held for a short period of time, often without being formally charged with a crime. It can also relate to situations like airport security checks or immigration procedures.

  • The passengers were detained at the airport for questioning.
  • Due to suspicious behavior, he was detained by the security guards.
arrested

This term is used when someone is taken into custody by law enforcement officials and formally charged with a crime. It signifies a legal process and is often accompanied by the reading of rights.

  • He was arrested for robbery last night.
  • The police arrested several individuals involved in the protest.
apprehended

This word is commonly used to describe the act of capturing or taking someone into custody, usually in context of law enforcement. It emphasizes the moment of capture.

  • The fugitive was finally apprehended by the police.
  • After a long chase, the suspect was apprehended without incident.
held

The word 'held' can be used in a variety of contexts but often implies keeping someone in a location or state, sometimes forcibly. It lacks the formal legal implications of 'detained' or 'arrested' and can be used in both negative and non-negative situations.

  • The kidnappers held their hostages in a remote cabin.
  • She held the child's hand as they crossed the street.

Examples of usage

  • They detained the suspect for questioning.
  • The protesters were detained by the authorities.
  • After being detained for several hours, he was released without charge.
Context #2 | Verb

delayed

Detained can also mean to be held back or delayed. It can refer to being kept for a longer period than expected or being stopped from progressing.

Synonyms

delayed, held up, postponed.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

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Word Description / Examples
detained

Typically used in a legal or formal setting to describe someone who is being held by authorities, often against their will.

  • The police detained the suspect for further questioning.
  • She was detained at the airport for carrying a suspicious item.
delayed

Used to describe when an event or action occurs later than planned, often due to unforeseen circumstances.

  • The flight was delayed due to bad weather.
  • His response to the message was delayed because he was stuck in a meeting.
held up

Usually refers to something being delayed or obstructed, often informally. It can also mean being robbed at gunpoint in some contexts.

  • She was held up in traffic and arrived late.
  • The construction project was held up because of the heavy rain.
postponed

Used when an event is rescheduled to a later date or time, usually in a formal or planned setting.

  • The meeting has been postponed until next Monday.
  • Due to inclement weather, the concert was postponed.

Examples of usage

  • The flight was detained due to bad weather.
  • She was detained at work and couldn't attend the meeting on time.

Interesting Facts

Legal Context

  • In many countries, detention often occurs when someone is suspected of breaking the law but hasn't been formally charged.
  • Police can detain individuals for a limited time to ask questions or investigate, usually without formally arresting them.

Historical Context

  • Detention practices have evolved significantly over time, especially during war and conflict when governments might detain individuals seen as threats.
  • Throughout history, political detentions have been used to suppress dissent, particularly during authoritarian regimes in various countries.

Psychological Impact

  • Being detained can lead to feelings of anxiety, fear, and confusion, especially if individuals do not understand why they are being held.
  • Studies show that even short-term detention can have lasting effects on a person's mental health, affecting their trust in authority.

Media Representation

  • Films and television often depict detention in a dramatic light, showcasing the tension and conflict between law enforcement and individuals.
  • Documentaries have highlighted the stories of those who have been wrongfully detained, shining a light on the importance of civil rights.

Cultural Perspectives

  • In different cultures, the concepts of detention vary, with some societies having more severe penalties for those accused of crimes.
  • Community reactions to detention can differ widely, from support for law enforcement to protests against perceived injustices.

Translations

Translations of the word "detained" in other languages:

🇵🇹 detido

🇮🇳 हिरासत में लिया गया

🇩🇪 in Gewahrsam genommen

🇮🇩 ditahan

🇺🇦 затриманий

🇵🇱 zatrzymany

🇯🇵 拘束された

🇫🇷 détenu

🇪🇸 detenido

🇹🇷 gözaltına alınmış

🇰🇷 구금된

🇸🇦 محتجز

🇨🇿 zadržený

🇸🇰 zadržaný

🇨🇳 被拘留

🇸🇮 pridržan

🇮🇸 handtekinn

🇰🇿 қамалған

🇬🇪 დაკავებული

🇦🇿 saxlanılan

🇲🇽 detenido

Word Frequency Rank

Position #7,931 indicates this is an advanced-level word. While not essential for basic communication, it will enhance your ability to understand and create more nuanced content.