Loathing: meaning, definitions and examples

This word is best used to describe a feeling of intense dislike or disgust, often with an element of deep emotional impact.

• Her loathing for the corrupt politician was palpable.
• He felt a sense of loathing whenever he saw the abandoned factory.

Hatred is used to describe an intense, deep-seated aversion or hostility towards someone or something. It often implies a desire to cause harm.

• His hatred for his enemy knew no bounds.
• She could not hide her hatred towards the injustice she witnessed.

This word is used to describe a strong physical or emotional repulsion, often involving a sense of nausea or distaste.

• The smell of rotten food filled her with disgust.
• He looked at the crime scene with undisguised disgust.

Use 'aversion' to talk about a strong dislike or unwillingness to do something. It's usually milder than 'loathing' and can apply to activities, objects, or even foods.

• He has a strong aversion to spiders.
• She developed an aversion to junk food after learning about its health effects.

Repugnance describes a strong feeling of disgust or aversion, often to something morally or ethically offensive. It can also imply a reaction of strong disapproval.

• She felt repugnance at the idea of animal cruelty.
• The repugnance in his eyes was evident when he spoke about the corruption.

Use this word for a strong feeling of hatred or disgust towards something or someone, often sustained over time.

• She felt loathing for the corrupt politician
• His loathing of spiders made him avoid the garden

This word is appropriate for expressing a strong physical or emotional reaction to something offensive, unpleasant, or distasteful.

• The smell of rotten food filled him with disgust
• She looked at the dirty room with disgust

This word is best used to indicate a sudden and strong feeling of disgust or repulsion, often triggered by a specific action or event.

• He felt a sense of revulsion when he saw the crime scene
• Her revulsion was clear when she saw the bug

Use this word to describe an intense aversion or hatred that often involves a personal element or deep emotional reaction.

• His detestation for lying made him distrustful of many people
• She expressed her detestation for the policy loudly

This word is suitable for expressing a deep-seated, intense dislike or hatred, often with a moral implication.

• Her abhorrence of violence is well-known
• The community's abhorrence for the crime was evident in their reaction