Are you looking for different ways to express the concept of “detain” in your sentences? Whether you need to write a formal document, communicate informally, or simply want to expand your vocabulary, this guide will provide you with various phrases, tips, and examples to help you express the idea of detaining someone effectively. Let’s delve into the different ways you can say “detain” in a sentence.
Table of Contents
Formal Expressions:
When writing or speaking formally, it is important to use proper language to convey your message effectively. Here are some formal alternatives for the word “detain”:
1. Arrest
John was arrested by the police for his involvement in the robbery.
2. Apprehend
The suspect was promptly apprehended by law enforcement officers.
3. Confine
The authorities decided to confine the prisoner to his cell.
4. Hold in Custody
Following his capture, the criminal was immediately held in custody.
Informal Expressions:
When chatting with friends or expressing ideas in a more relaxed environment, you may want to use informal terms to describe the act of detaining someone. Here are some examples:
1. Grab
He was caught red-handed, so they quickly grabbed him.
2. Take into Custody
The police took the suspect into custody after a brief chase.
3. Hold
The bouncer held the troublemaker until the police arrived.
4. Keep in Detention
They decided to keep the trespassers in detention until further notice.
Examples and Tips:
Now that we’ve covered some formal and informal ways to say “detain,” let’s provide you with a few more examples and additional tips:
1. Using “Detain” in a Sentence:
The teacher had to detain the misbehaving student after class for a discussion about his behavior.
2. Highlighting Purpose or Reason:
The security personnel detained the individual at the entrance due to suspicion of carrying prohibited items.
3. Indicating a Temporary Hold:
The airport staff detained the passenger until they could verify his identity.
4. Supporting a Cause-Effect Relationship:
The lack of proper documentation may result in the authorities detaining travelers at the border.
Remember, when using any synonym of “detain,” consider the context in which it will be understood. Choose the word that best conveys your intended meaning and aligns with the overall tone of your communication.
In conclusion, this guide has provided you with both formal and informal alternatives to express the concept of detain in a sentence. By using words such as “arrest,” “apprehend,” “confine,” “hold in custody,” “grab,” “take into custody,” “hold,” and “keep in detention,” you can diversify your vocabulary and effectively communicate the idea of detaining someone. With these tips and examples, you can confidently express yourself in various contexts, from formal documents to informal conversations. Remember to use appropriate language while maintaining a warm and approachable tone.
