Hate Meaning: Definition, Examples, and Translations

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hate

[heษชt ]

Definitions

Context #1 | Verb

strong feeling

To feel an intense or passionate dislike for someone or something.

Synonyms

despise, detest, loathe.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

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Word Description / Examples
hate

Used to describe a strong feeling of dislike or aversion towards something or someone. It can be used in both formal and informal contexts.

  • I hate getting up early in the morning.
  • She hates broccoli.
detest

Often used to express an intense dislike or hatred for something. 'Detest' suggests an emotional aversion that is more personal.

  • I detest the smell of cigarette smoke.
  • They detest being lied to.
despise

Used to express a deep repugnance and lack of respect towards someone or something. This word is stronger than 'hate' and often conveys a sense of moral judgment.

  • He despises corrupt politicians.
  • She despises dishonesty in any form.
loathe

Used to describe a strong feeling of hatred or disgust, often implying a physical repulsion. 'Loathe' is one of the strongest terms for expressing dislike.

  • She loathes the taste of liver.
  • They loathe each other after the argument.

Examples of usage

  • I hate Mondays because I have to go to work.
  • She hated the way he treated her.
Context #2 | Noun

intense dislike

Intense or passionate dislike.

Synonyms

animosity, aversion, hatred.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

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Word Description / Examples
hate

Used to express strong dislike or intense aversion towards something or someone, often more general and less formal.

  • I hate waking up early
  • He hates broccoli
hatred

Refers to an intense and often long-lasting emotional dislike, usually more formal and severe than 'hate'.

  • Her hatred for injustice motivated her activism
  • The speech was filled with hatred and bigotry
aversion

Indicates a strong feeling of disinclination or repulsion, often used for more specific, situational dislikes.

  • She has an aversion to spicy food
  • His aversion to public speaking was well known
animosity

Describes a deep-seated and often long-term feeling of hostility or resentment, usually directed towards a person or group.

  • There has always been animosity between the two families
  • Animosity in the office can lead to a toxic work environment

Examples of usage

  • Their hate for each other was evident in their arguments.
  • The hate between the two rival gangs led to violence.

Translations

To see the translation, please select a language from the options available.

Interesting Facts

Psychology

  • Feelings of hate can stem from fear or hurt, acting as a defense mechanism against perceived threats.
  • Expressing hate can have physical effects on the body, raising stress hormones and causing tension.
  • Studies indicate that strong emotions, including hate, impact decision-making processes in significant ways.

History

  • Throughout history, hate has been a catalyst for wars, conflicts, and significant social movements.
  • The term 'hate speech' emerged in the late 20th century, drawing attention to the implications of harmful words.
  • Major historical events, such as the Holocaust, were driven by deep-seated hate towards specific groups, highlighting the catastrophic consequences.

Literature

  • Classic literature often explores themes of hate, such as in Shakespeare's 'Othello,' where jealousy and hate intertwine.
  • Dostoevsky's 'Crime and Punishment' delves into the psyche of a man battling inner hate and morality dilemmas.
  • In modern novels, characters often confront their hate, leading to personal growth and reflection.

Pop Culture

  • Songs and movies frequently address the theme of hate, providing poignant commentary on social issues.
  • Popular quotes like 'Hate cannot drive out hate; only love can do that' remind us of the need for compassion.
  • Reality shows have sometimes sparked public hate toward participants, revealing the darker side of fandom and societal judgment.

Philosophy

  • Philosophers have long debated the nature of hate, questioning whether it is a product of human nature or learned behavior.
  • Existential thinkers argue that hate can stem from a lack of understanding and connection with others.
  • Ethics discussions often explore the moral implications of harboring hate, emphasizing compassion instead.

Origin of 'hate'

The word 'hate' has Old English origins, derived from the Proto-Germanic word 'haitjan'. Its meaning has evolved over time to represent a strong feeling of intense dislike or aversion towards someone or something. The concept of hate is deeply rooted in human emotions and has been a subject of philosophical and psychological study.


See also: hateful, hater, hatred.

Word Frequency Rank

With rank #4,237, this word represents useful upper-intermediate vocabulary. Understanding and using it will help you express more complex ideas effectively.