What context can I use each word in?
Learn when and how to use these words with these examples!
detenu
Example
The detenu was held in custody for several months before being released. [detenu: noun]
Example
The government detained the political detenu without trial. [detenu: adjective]
detainee
Example
The detainee was held in custody for questioning about the crime. [detainee: noun]
Example
The military authorities detained the enemy combatants as detainees. [detainee: plural noun]
Good things to know
Which word is more common?
Detainee is more commonly used than detenu in everyday language.
Whatโs the difference in the tone of formality between detenu and detainee?
Both detenu and detainee are formal and legal terms, but detenu is more commonly used in legal contexts, while detainee is more versatile and can be used in both formal and informal contexts.
