What context can I use each word in?
Learn when and how to use these words with these examples!
hateful
Example
She gave him a hateful look when he walked into the room. [hateful: adjective]
Example
He made a hateful comment about her appearance, which hurt her feelings. [hateful: adjective]
Example
The hateful actions of the dictator caused widespread suffering and oppression. [hateful: adjective]
detestable
Example
I find his behavior detestable and unacceptable. [detestable: adjective]
Example
The company's treatment of its employees is detestable and unethical. [detestable: adjective]
Example
The detestable crime of human trafficking must be stopped. [detestable: adjective]
Good things to know
Which word is more common?
Hateful is more commonly used than detestable in everyday language, especially in spoken English. Detestable is more formal and less frequently used, often in written or academic contexts.
What’s the difference in the tone of formality between hateful and detestable?
Detestable is more formal and less frequently used than hateful. It is often used in written or academic contexts, while hateful is more versatile and can be employed in both formal and informal contexts.
