Definition:
"Detainment" is a noun that refers to the state of being held or confined, usually for a short period. It often involves a person being kept by authorities, like the police.
In more complex discussions, "detainment" can be used in legal or political contexts. For example, you might hear about "unlawful detainment," which refers to when someone is held without proper legal justification.
Detain (verb): To hold someone in custody.
Example: "The police decided to detain the suspect for questioning."
Detained (adjective): Referring to someone who is being held.
Example: "The detained individuals were later released."
"Detainment" is primarily used in a legal or authoritative context. It does not refer to longer imprisonment, which would be called "imprisonment" or "confinement."
While there are no specific idioms directly related to "detainment," you can use related phrasal verbs that involve confinement or holding someone, such as:
In summary, "detainment" describes a situation where a person is held by authorities, often temporarily and without formal charges.