What is detestation? Pronunciation and usage in English

detestation means . Learn how to pronounce and use detestation through vivid examples and easy-to-understand exercises.

Definition & pronunciation of detestation

detestationnoun

/ˌdiːteˈsteɪʃn//ˌdiːteˈsteɪʃn/

Okay, let's break down how to pronounce "detestation" in English. It can be tricky! Here's a breakdown with phonetic guidelines and tips:

Phonetic Transcription (IPA - International Phonetic Alphabet):

/dɪˈsteɪʃən/

Pronunciation Breakdown:

  • di: Like the "dee" in "did" or "die." (short 'i' sound)
  • stei: This is the tricky part. It’s pronounced like “stay” but with a slightly elongated ‘a’ sound, almost like “stai.” Think of it as a quick, short “ay” sound.
  • shun: Like the “shun” in “sun” or “fun.” (short ‘u’ sound)

Putting it together:

It sounds roughly like: di-STAY-shun

Tips for Saying it Correctly:

  • Stress: The primary stress is on the second syllable: “stei.”
  • Don’t over-elongate: The "stay" part shouldn't be a drawn-out, drawn-out sound. It’s quick.
  • Practice slowly: Start by saying each part (“di,” “stay,” “shun”) individually, then put them together slowly.
  • Listen to examples: The best way to learn is to hear it spoken. Here are some resources:

To help me give you even more tailored advice, could you tell me:

  • Are you a native English speaker, or are you learning English as a second language?

Usage and examples with the word detestation in English

Let's break down how to use the word "detestation" effectively in English. It's a strong word, so it’s important to use it thoughtfully.

1. Meaning:

  • Core Definition: "Detestation" means a feeling of intense dislike, abhorrence, or hatred. It goes beyond simple dislike; it's a deep, visceral aversion.

2. Parts of Speech & Usage:

  • Noun: Most commonly, "detestation" is used as a noun – referring to the feeling itself.

    • Example: “He felt a deep detestation for dishonesty.”
    • Example: "Her detestation of spiders was well-known."

  • Verb: It can also be used as a verb, meaning to feel or express detestation. This is less frequent but adds a more active nuance.

    • Example: "He detested the idea of going to the party.” (This is a more common and natural way to say it.)
    • Example: “She detested his behavior with a burning detestation.” (This is a slightly more formal and emphatic way of saying she hated it.)

3. Level of Formality:

  • "Detestation" is a somewhat formal word. It’s not something you’d typically use in casual conversation. It’s better suited for writing – especially in more elevated or literary styles – or in situations where a strong and precise way to express dislike is needed.

4. Synonyms (To give you alternatives):

  • Strong Synonyms (Similar intensity): Abhorrence, revulsion, loathing, execration, animosity
  • Weaker Synonyms (Less intense): Dislike, aversion, disapproval, contempt

5. Example Sentences Illustrating Different Contexts:

  • Moral/Ethical Detestation: “The treaty was met with widespread detestation due to its unjust clauses.”
  • Personal Detestation: “He harbored a deep detestation for all forms of prejudice.”
  • Describing a Feeling: "A wave of detestation washed over her as she read the report.”
  • Expressing Disagreement: "She expressed her detestation of the proposed changes with vehement protest."

6. Important Note: "Detest" is Often Preferred

As mentioned earlier, the verb "detest" is far more common and generally sounds more natural in everyday speech and writing. "Detestation" carries a weight that sometimes feels overly dramatic.

Resources for Further Learning:

To help me give you even more tailored advice, could you tell me:

  • What are you writing (or speaking) about? (e.g., a novel, an essay, a casual conversation?)
  • What kind of feeling are you trying to convey? (Just dislike? Intense hatred? Disapproval of a specific action?)

Synonyms for the word detestation

Practice with vocabulary detestation

Exercise 1: Fill in the blanks

  1. The company's unethical practices earned it the public's widespread _________.
  2. She felt a profound _________ for the taste of cilantro, avoiding it at all costs.
  3. The speaker expressed his utter _________ for corruption, vowing to fight against it.
  4. Despite winning the promotion, Mark harbored deep _________ towards his colleague who had tried to sabotage his efforts.

Exercise 2: Choose the correct answer (there may be multiple correct answers per question)

  1. Which of the following words best describes an intense feeling of hatred or loathing? a) admiration b) indifference c) detestation d) fondness e) abhorrence

  2. After the government's controversial decision, public sentiment shifted from mild disapproval to widespread _________. a) approbation b) contempt c) commendation d) detestation e) apathy

  3. He harbored a deep _________ for dishonesty and deceit in all its forms. a) admiration b) enthusiasm c) detestation d) reverence

  4. The professor's strict grading policies often led to student _________. a) compliance b) frustration c) enthusiasm d) engagement e) gratification

  5. Which emotions are most closely associated with a feeling of intense moral outrage and strong rejection of something perceived as evil? a) veneration b) indignation c) reverence d) abhorrence e) adulation

Exercise 3: Rewrite the sentences

  1. People intensely disliked the dictator's cruel regime. (Rewrite using a form of "detestation")
  2. He felt an overwhelming aversion to the unethical business practices. (Rewrite using a form of "detestation")
  3. She felt a strong dislike for his arrogant attitude. (Rewrite, but do not use "detestation", use a suitable replacement word)

Answer:

Exercise 1:

  1. detestation
  2. aversion
  3. detestation
  4. resentment

Exercise 2:

  1. c) detestation, e) abhorrence
  2. b) contempt, d) detestation
  3. c) detestation
  4. b) frustration
  5. b) indignation, d) abhorrence

Exercise 3:

  1. The dictator's cruel regime was met with widespread public detestation.
  2. He harbored a profound detestation for the unethical business practices.
  3. She felt a strong antipathy towards his arrogant attitude.

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