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.

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

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