Despise vs. Detest

Attribute	Despise	Detest
Intensity	Strong	Stronger
Origin	Middle English	Middle English
Synonyms	Hate, loathe	Abhor, abominate
Usage	Formal	Formal

Definition

Despise and detest are both strong verbs that express a deep dislike or hatred towards something or someone. However, there is a subtle difference in their meanings. Despise typically conveys a feeling of contempt or disgust towards something, while detest implies a strong aversion or repugnance. Both words are used to express intense negative emotions, but the nuances in their definitions can affect how they are used in different contexts.

Usage

Despise is often used to describe a feeling of disdain or scorn towards someone or something. For example, you might despise a person for their unethical behavior or despise a particular food for its taste. On the other hand, detest is more commonly used to express a feeling of intense dislike or abhorrence. You might detest a political ideology or detest a certain type of music.

Intensity

While both despise and detest convey strong negative emotions, detest is generally considered to be more intense than despise. When you detest something, you feel a deep-seated aversion or repulsion towards it. It evokes a visceral reaction of disgust or revulsion. Despise, on the other hand, may imply a more passive feeling of contempt or disdain. It suggests a lack of respect or regard for the object of dislike.

Context

The choice between despise and detest often depends on the context in which they are used. Despise is more commonly used in situations where there is a sense of superiority or condescension towards the object of dislike. It implies a feeling of looking down on something or someone. Detest, on the other hand, is used when the feeling of dislike is more visceral and intense. It conveys a sense of strong aversion or repugnance.

Examples

• I despise people who are dishonest in their dealings.
• She detests the smell of cigarette smoke.
• He despises the way his boss treats his employees.
• They detest the violence in the movie.

Conclusion

In conclusion, despise and detest are both powerful verbs that express intense negative emotions. While they are often used interchangeably, there are subtle differences in their meanings and connotations. Despise conveys a feeling of contempt or disdain, while detest implies a strong aversion or repugnance. Understanding these nuances can help you choose the right word to accurately convey your feelings of dislike or hatred towards something or someone.