Hello robjen.You are right. "Abominate" is a
very strong word.
It is also an almost unknown word in British English. It may be used occasionally by a politician or priest saying how terrible someone (from another party or religion) is - but I don't think I've ever heard it said in 68 years.
The adjective "abominable" is sometimes heard (not
often, but sometimes), usually in the phrase "
abominable snowman" - the common name for the Yeti.
I don't know how you came across this word. It is correct as you use it, but 'hate', 'loathe', 'detest' are common words which you will read, and which people would understand. "Hate" is not so strong as "abominate", but is the same idea. "Loathe" and "detest" are very similar.
"Abhor" is not so usual but would be understood.
"Abominate" and "Execrate" would be understood by some people, but
not most people.
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Personally, I would use these words more to describe one's reaction to something
evil and cruel - not just the weather.
Farmers hate heavy snow. Acts of genocide (killing a whole other race) is abominable.
Wyrd bið ful aræd - bull!