Here are some synonyms of "abhorrent" and an analysis of each:
1. Repugnant
- Meaning: "Repugnant" means extremely distasteful or offensive. It implies a strong feeling of aversion or disgust. For example, "The smell of the rotting garbage was repugnant." When used to describe ideas or behaviors, it emphasizes that they are so offensive that they arouse a sense of moral or physical repulsion.
- Usage: Commonly used to describe things that are offensive to the senses, such as a repugnant taste or smell. It's also used to express strong disapproval of immoral or unethical behavior. For example, "His repugnant remarks about other ethnic groups were condemned by everyone."
2. Detestable
- Meaning: "Detestable" means worthy of being detested or hated. It indicates a high level of dislike or loathing. For example, "The dictator's detestable actions led to widespread suffering." This word emphasizes the emotional response of hatred and is often used to describe people, actions, or qualities that are considered morally or socially unacceptable.
- Usage: Used to describe behaviors, individuals, or concepts that are seen as completely unforgivable or highly offensive. It's a strong word and is usually reserved for things that are considered to be among the worst in terms of moral or ethical values. For example, "The detestable crime of child abuse is unforgivable."
3. Loathsome
- Meaning: "Loathsome" means causing feelings of loathing or disgust. It's similar to "repugnant" and "detestable" but may have a more visceral or gut - level connotation. For example, "The loathsome sight of the maggots on the decaying food made her gag." It often implies a physical reaction of revulsion along with a strong emotional dislike.
- Usage: Used to describe things that are not only morally or socially unacceptable but also physically repulsive. It's a very powerful word and is used to express extreme distaste. For example, "The loathsome habits of the slob were hard to tolerate."
4. Repulsive
- Meaning: "Repulsive" means tending to repel or drive away because of being disgusting or offensive. It emphasizes the action of pushing someone away due to its unpleasant nature. For example, "The repulsive appearance of the monster in the movie made the audience recoil." It can refer to physical characteristics, behaviors, or ideas that are so off - putting that they create a sense of distance.
- Usage: Used to describe things that cause a physical or emotional retreat due to their unappealing or offensive nature. It's often used in descriptions of horror, ugliness, or immoral behavior. For example, "The repulsive behavior of the bully made the other children avoid him."
5. Odious
- Meaning: "Odious" means extremely hateful or detestable. It has a sense of being despicable and often implies a moral condemnation. For example, "The odious plot to assassinate the leader was thwarted." It's used to describe actions, ideas, or individuals that are considered to be evil or highly offensive in a moral or ethical sense.
- Usage: Used in a more formal context to express strong disapproval of something that is seen as morally wrong or abominable. For example, "The odious practice of slavery was finally abolished."