detentar
hold
Tener o mantener algo, como un cargo o poder, de manera ilegal o sin derecho.
Definition & meaning
Detentar means to hold or exercise power, authority, or a public office illegitimately—for example, without a lawful right to do so. This is its precise, standard meaning.
It is also often used more broadly to mean simply “to hold” or “to occupy” a position or office. That use is common, but in careful Spanish it may imply that the person’s hold on the position is unlawful or improper. For neutral possession or office-holding, a different verb is usually clearer.
Grammar & Word origin
Detentar is a regular transitive verb ending in -ar: it takes a direct object, such as power or an office. It comes from Latin detentāre, related to the idea of holding or keeping something back.
Synonyms & antonyms
- usurpar — to usurp; stronger than detentar, as it emphasizes seizing a position or authority without the right to it.
- ejercer ilegalmente — to exercise unlawfully; a descriptive alternative that makes the illegality explicit.
- ocupar — to occupy or hold a position; more neutral and does not necessarily imply illegitimacy.
In the sense of unlawfully holding power, possible opposites include:
Common phrases & collocations
- detentar el poder — to hold or exercise power, generally with an implication of illegitimacy.
- detentar un cargo — to hold a position or office, with the same implication.
Make “detentar” part of your vocabulary.
Build your Spanish vocabulary with flashcards, audio and spaced repetition.
Examples
Durante décadas, ciertos líderes detentaron el control absoluto del país.verb
For decades, certain leaders held absolute control of the country.
Keep exploring Spanish
Learn words from the content you love.
Add words from websites, books and videos, then remember them with spaced repetition (SRS).
Scan for iPhone & iPad