Spanish Conversation · Level 65
60 words
Spanish word
detestar
Pronunciation
IPA/detesˈtaɾ/
Meaning
- verbhate
Example
Yo detesto el café.
I hate coffee.
More examples
Nosotros detestamos esperar en filas largas.
We hate to wait in long lines.
Core concept
Person pushing a cup away while turning their face in disgust.
Common phrases
detestar + infinitivo
hate to + infinitive
detestar algo
hate something
detestar profundamente
hate deeply
Similar words
odiar: Feel intense hatred or hostile animosity, often directed at a person or group.
disgustar: Produces unpleasantness or revulsion that makes someone feel displeased or physically queasy.
despreciar: Views someone or something as worthless and treats them with contempt.
Definition in Spanish
Tener una aversión muy fuerte hacia algo o alguien, mostrando rechazo intenso.
Word origin
Derives from Latin detestārī (de- 'away/against' + testārī 'to witness or curse') and shows a shift from cursing or denunciation to intense dislike.
Usage tips
- Detestar conveys very strong aversion and can sound harsh when applied to a person, so use no me gusta or me desagrada for milder dislike.