“Loath” vs. “Loathe”: What’s the Difference?

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The difference between “loath” and “loathe”

  • The primary difference between loath and loathe is the degree of the feeling of dislike or disgust.
  • While loath is a milder expression, loathe implies a more intense and visceral negative reaction.
  • Loath is often used to describe a reluctance or unwillingness, while loathe is reserved for describing strong aversion or hatred.
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What is the definition of “loath” and “loathe”?

Loath
  • Loath means an extreme feeling of dislike or disgust towards something or someone.
  • It is often used to describe a feeling of aversion or unwillingness towards something.
  • The term can be used interchangeably with "reluctant" or "unwilling."
Loathe
  • Loathe means to have an intense feeling of hatred or disgust for someone or something.
  • It often connotes a sense of revulsion or repulsion towards something.
  • Loathe is a stronger term than loath and implies a deep-seated hatred or abhorrence towards something or someone.

Which is the more popular variant on the Internet?

“Loathe” is the more popular variant on the web.
Loath
3,950,000 results on the web
Examples
  1. I am loath to attend the party since I don't know anyone there.
  2. She is loath to accept criticism even if it would make her a better writer.
  3. He was loath to leave his dog behind while going on vacation.
More popular
Loathe
11,700,000 results on the web
Examples
  1. I absolutely loathe mushrooms and won't eat them no matter how they're cooked.
  2. She loathes violence and avoids watching action movies.
  3. He loathes the politician and believes that he's corrupt.
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