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detestable

adjective

/dɪˈtɛs tə bəl/

IPA:

Dictionary definition of detestable

Deserving of strong dislike, aversion, or intense hatred.
"He found her dishonesty to be detestable and broke off all contact with her."

Detailed meaning of detestable

It characterizes things or individuals that evoke a profound sense of repulsion, abhorrence, or disgust. When something is described as detestable, it suggests that it is highly offensive, objectionable, or morally repugnant. The term emphasizes the strong negative emotions associated with the subject, indicating a high level of disdain or revulsion. 'Detestable' is often used to describe actions, behaviors, attitudes, or qualities that are widely condemned or considered morally reprehensible. It implies a deep-seated contempt or abomination towards the subject, and the term is typically employed to express a strong and unequivocal judgment of disapproval.

Example sentences containing detestable

1. His detestable actions towards others made him widely despised.
2. The politician's detestable behavior during the debate turned off many voters.
3. The movie portrayed the villain as a detestable character with no redeeming qualities.
4. The smell emanating from the garbage was absolutely detestable.
5. The dictator's regime was known for its detestable human rights abuses.
6. The company's detestable business practices led to a significant public backlash.

History and etymology of detestable

The adjective 'detestable' derives its etymology from the Latin word 'detestabilis,' which can be broken down into two components: 'de,' meaning 'completely' or 'intensely,' and 'testari,' meaning 'to bear witness' or 'to affirm.' In its original Latin form, 'detestabilis' was used to describe something that was so abhorrent and loathsome that it elicited strong and vehement expressions of disapproval or condemnation. Over time, this word made its way into English as 'detestable,' maintaining its essence of representing something deserving of strong dislike, aversion, or intense hatred. Thus, the etymology of 'detestable' underscores its historical association with intense repulsion and disdain.

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Further usage examples of detestable

1. The teacher's favoritism towards certain students was viewed as detestable by the rest of the class.
2. The actor's offensive remarks on social media were widely condemned as detestable.
3. The character's detestable actions in the novel shocked and disgusted readers.
4. The media exposed the detestable corruption within the government.
5. The artist's controversial artwork was considered by some as daring, but by others as detestable.
6. His detestable behavior alienated everyone around him.
7. The villain's actions were truly detestable.
8. She found the taste of the dish detestable.
9. His detestable lies shattered trust in the relationship.
10. The movie portrayed the antagonist as utterly detestable.
11. Discrimination based on race is a detestable practice.
12. The politician's corruption was widely regarded as detestable.
13. Acts of cruelty toward animals are undeniably detestable.
14. The betrayal left a detestable stain on their friendship.
15. The dictator's regime was characterized by detestable oppression.
16. Hate speech is not only hurtful but also detestable.
17. Some find arrogance to be a detestable trait.
18. The cult leader's manipulative tactics were truly detestable.
19. The thought of war is detestable to those who seek peace.
20. His selfishness made him appear detestable to others.
21. The criminal's actions were universally detestable.
22. Prejudice and bigotry are undeniably detestable attitudes.
23. The serial killer's crimes were deemed the most detestable.
24. Racism and discrimination are detestable forms of injustice.
25. The betrayal was seen as a detestable act of disloyalty.