Which of the following is a synonym for "detest"?

The word "detest" means to strongly dislike or find something extremely unpleasant. A synonym is a word that has the same or nearly the same meaning as another word. In this case, the term "hate" aligns closely with "detest" as both express a profound aversion or intense dislike for something. Understanding this relationship helps clarify why "hate" is the correct choice.

On the other hand, "like," "admire," and "prefer" denote positive feelings towards someone or something, which is contrary to the negative connotation of "detest." Therefore, they do not serve as synonyms. In this context, it is essential to recognize the emotional intensity conveyed by both "detest" and "hate," reinforcing why "hate" is the most appropriate synonym.