Synonyms for

Detention

Verb / dɪˈtenʃʌn / Another word for detention — explore alternatives below. For syllable breakdowns and pronunciation, see this word on Syllablesworld.

Definition

Detention means a punishment given to someone, usually a student, for doing something wrong. It involves staying after school or being kept in a specific area for a period of time.

Synonyms & similar words

custody detainment hold confinement imprisonment penalty punishment restraint retention time-out time-in custody incarceration internment holding apprehension captivity detainment arrest remand jail

Synonyms by register

Formal

custody confinement incarceration imprisonment

Informal

grounding time-out punishment holding

Literary

penance abeyance holdback

Antonyms

freedom release liberty exemption acquittal discharge

Common collocations

  • serve detention
  • after-school detention
  • detention center
  • detention facility
  • detention period
  • detention order
  • detention hearing

Word family

noun detention
verb detain
adjective detainable

Usage note

Primarily used in educational or legal contexts to refer to punishment involving confinement. 'Detain' is the related verb, often used for holding someone temporarily.

Example sentences

  1. The teacher gave me detention for not turning in my homework.
  2. I had to stay in detention for an hour after school.
  3. Getting detention made me realize that I need to behave better in class.
  4. If you keep misbehaving, you might end up with detention too.
  5. He got detention for skipping class.

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