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 !
Can the verb haïr be used insteadof détester and if so would it take the subjunctive?
- « Back to Q&A Forum
- « Previous questionNext question »
JenniferKwiziq Q&A regular contributor
Can the verb haïr be used insteadof détester and if so would it take the subjunctive?
This question relates to:French lesson "Aimer que/détester que + the subjunctive mood (Le Subjonctif) = to like/hate that in French"
Asked 6 years ago

Ron 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.
AndyKwiziq 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.
JenniferKwiziq 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.
AndyKwiziq 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.
Don't have an account yet? Join today
Ask a question
Find your French level for FREE
Test your French to the CEFR standard
Find your French level