detain
verb (used with object)
to keep from proceeding; keep waiting; delay.
am detaining
-
present progressiveof detain (1st person singular).present progressive
Used to describe an ongoing action or state that is currently taking place in the immediate present.
Example Sentences
Examples are provided to illustrate real-world usage of words in context. Any opinions expressed do not reflect the views of Dictionary.com.
I am detaining a man in a burning hurry.
From The Complete Works of Robert Burns: Containing his Poems, Songs, and Correspondence. With a New Life of the Poet, and Notices, Critical and Biographical by Allan Cunningham by Robert Burns
"Yes," she said, hesitatingly; "but—I fear I am detaining you"...
From The Yellow Claw by Sax Rohmer
"You are hurt," said the master, genuinely shocked, "and here I am detaining you."
From Cressy by Bret Harte
But I am detaining my readers too long from what I have already indicated as the third and final part of our programme.
From A Letter to Hon. Charles Sumner, with 'Statements' of Outrages upon Freedmen in Georgia by Hamilton W. (Hamilton Wilcox) Pierson
I will write a line to Miss Henderson and say I am detaining you both till afternoon school.
From A Very Naughty Girl by L. T. Meade
