detener (spanish) - meaning, definition, translation, pronunciation

Part of Speech

The word "detener" is a verb in Spanish.

Phonetic Transcription

/deteˈneɾ/

Translation Options into English

• To stop
• To detain
• To hold
• To arrest

Meaning and Usage

"Detener" is used primarily in contexts involving the act of stopping something or someone from moving or proceeding. In legal terminology, it often refers to the concept of detaining a person, such as by law enforcement. The term is quite versatile and can also apply to halting an action or event.

• Frequency of Use: "Detener" is commonly used in both spoken and written forms of the language, especially in legal, military, and general contexts.
• Context: The term is frequently employed in everyday conversations, legal documents, and military commands.

Example Sentences

1. Detener el tráfico es necesario para la seguridad de los peatones.

2. "Stopping the traffic is necessary for the safety of pedestrians."

3. La policía decidió detener al sospechoso en el lugar.

4. "The police decided to detain the suspect at the scene."

5. Es importante detener la producción si hay fallos en la calidad.

6. "It is important to stop production if there are quality failures."

Idiomatic Expressions

The word "detener" is often used in idiomatic expressions in Spanish. Here are some examples:

1. Detenerse en seco.
2. "To stop dead in one's tracks."

3. This expression means to stop suddenly, often due to surprise or realization.

4. Detener el tiempo.

5. "To stop time."

6. This phrase is used metaphorically to convey a desire to pause a moment due to its significance or beauty.

7. Detener el paso.

8. "To halt the step."

9. Used to indicate the act of stopping progress or movement, often in a literal or metaphorical sense.

10. Detener la cuenta regresiva.

11. "To stop the countdown."

12. Generally refers to the idea of halting an imminent event, often used in contexts like project management or presentations.

13. No hay nada que detenga tu avance.

14. "Nothing can stop your progress."
15. This expression emphasizes resilience and determination.

Additional Idiomatic Expressions

1. El tiempo no se detiene.
2. "Time does not stop."

3. A reminder that life and events continue to progress regardless of circumstances.

4. Detener el desgaste emocional.

5. "To stop emotional wear and tear."

6. Refers to the process of managing mental health and wellbeing.

7. No te detengas ahora.

8. "Don't stop now."
9. Encouragement to keep going despite challenges.

Etymology

The verb "detener" originates from the Latin word "detinere," which means "to hold back." This term combines "de" (away) and "tenere" (to hold), evolving into the Spanish usage we find today.

Synonyms and Antonyms

• Synonyms: parar, cesar, frenar, suspender
• Antonyms: avanzar, continuar, proseguir, seguir

By understanding "detener" within its multiple contexts and uses, one can appreciate how versatile this verb is within the Spanish language.