What is the ruling on speaking during ablution?

It is permissible to speak during ablution (Wudu') because there is no legal impediment, and the default rule for actions is permissibility. The detestability (karāhah) reported by some scholars is interpreted as abandoning what is more preferable (tark al-awlā), meaning it is preferable not to speak without need. Al-Nawawi mentioned that among the recommended acts of Wudu' is not to speak unnecessarily. Al-Qadi 'Iyad reported the detestability of speaking during Wudu' and Ghusl (ritual bath), interpreting it as abandoning what is more preferable. Sheikh Ibn 'Uthaymin stated that speaking during Wudu' is not detestable, but it may distract the person performing ablution, potentially interrupting their conscious intention or causing obsessive doubts (waswas). Therefore, it is preferable not to speak until one finishes ablution, but if one speaks, there is no sin upon them.