detain
word
Definition
To officially keep someone in a place, especially by the police, so they cannot leave; also, to delay someone for some reason.
Usage & Nuances
Most often used in legal, police, or official contexts. Common combinations: 'detain someone for questioning', 'be detained at the airport'. Less formal: can mean to delay someone, but rarely used this way in everyday speech. Don't confuse 'detain' (to keep or hold) with 'retain' (to keep possession).
Example Sentences
The police detained the suspect for questioning.
basic
You may be detained at the airport for a security check.
basic
The meeting was detained by technical problems.
basic
Sorry I’m late— I was detained by a long phone call.
natural
Anyone found without proper documents will be detained.
natural
I’ll let you go—I don’t want to detain you any longer.
natural