detention
word
Definition
Detention is the act of keeping someone in a place so they cannot leave, such as by police or immigration authorities. In schools, it also means a punishment where a student must stay after class or after school.
Usage & Nuances
The school meaning is common in everyday speech, especially in American and British English: 'get detention', 'serve detention'. The legal meaning is more formal and often appears in news or official contexts: 'in detention', 'immigration detention'. Do not confuse it with 'attention' or with 'prison', which usually refers to a longer-term punishment after conviction.
Example Sentences
He got detention for being late to class again.
basic
The students had to stay after school for detention.
basic
The man is in detention while the police ask questions.
basic
If I talk one more time, I'll end up in detention.
natural
The report says dozens of migrants were held in detention for weeks.
natural
She has detention on Friday, so she can't come with us.
natural