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detestar

to detest

verb deh-tes-TAHR Rare

Origin: Latin detestari (to curse, abhor)

Usage Note

Detestar is stronger than no gustar but slightly less intense than odiar (to hate); it implies deep, settled aversion. It takes a direct object: detestar algo/a alguien. Unlike odiar, it rarely collocates with violent imagery and sounds more formal or literary in register.

Examples

"Detesta levantarse temprano los lunes."

Natural Translation

She detests getting up early on Mondays.

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