Synonyms for Detain

Definition of detain

verb
  1. deprive of freedom; take into confinement
  2. stop or halt; "Please stay the bloodshed!"
  3. cause to be slowed down or delayed; "Traffic was delayed by the bad weather"; "she delayed the work that she didn't want to perform"

3 synonyms found

Writing tips for "detain"

Choosing the right synonym depends on context, tone, and audience. Words like confine, delay, stay can replace "detain" depending on the shade of meaning you need. In poetry and songwriting, swapping synonyms lets you match a rhyme scheme or meter without changing your meaning. In prose, varying your word choice avoids repetition and keeps readers engaged.

"Detain" in song lyrics

See how detain is used in real songs:

  • "Cuz the complexities I freeze is too deep to detain,"
    Talib Kweli and Hi-Tek f/ De La Soul — Soul Rebels
  • "Chennai building collapse: 10 dead, 40 feared trapped, police detain 4"
    IBN Live — IBN Live

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