Can the verb haïr be used insteadof détester and if so would it take the subjunctive?

Jennifer C.C1Kwiziq Q&A regular contributor

Can the verb haïr be used insteadof détester and if so would it take the subjunctive?

Asked 7 years ago
AurélieNative French expert teacher in KwiziqCorrect answer
Bonjour Jennifer !

The answer is yes: haïr is a synonym of détester, though less commonly used nowadays, and just like détester, will be followed by Le Subjonctif:

Je hais que tu sois si parfait !

I hate that you are so perfect!

I hope that's helpful!
À bientôt !
Ron T.C1 Kwiziq Q&A super contributor
Bonjour Jennifer, Here is a link to the «Subjunctivisor» on this site. I searched it and was unable to locate haïr as a verb that needs the subjunctive. Bonne chance.
Andy N.C1Kwiziq Q&A regular contributor
Hi Jennifer, As far as I can see the verb haïr would (in theory) trigger the subjective, given that it's a strong expression of opinion or judgement. But, and this is a big but, quite simply it is never used in french to express "I hate that [something is the case]." In this case "détester que" remains the correct construction.
Jennifer C.C1Kwiziq Q&A regular contributor
Thank you both. I looked up larrousse and I think it seems to take de plus an infinitive. Not sure concentration going will look again later.
Andy N.C1Kwiziq Q&A regular contributor
Further research shows you're right. It can be used in such a construction and yes it does take the subjunctive: Haïr que (+ subjonctif) : il hait que l'on arrive en retard.
Catriona T.C1Kwiziq community member
Just to let you know, Aurélie, haïr is still being marked as wrong.
Jennifer C. asked:

Can the verb haïr be used insteadof détester and if so would it take the subjunctive?

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