ransom money

Friendly

Explanation of "Ransom Money"

Definition:
"Ransom money" is a noun that refers to the money that someone demands in exchange for the safe return of a person who has been kidnapped or held against their will.

Advanced Usage

In more complex sentences, "ransom money" can be used to discuss the emotional or moral implications of paying it: - Paying ransom money can encourage more kidnappings, as it shows that families will pay for their loved ones’ freedom.

Word Variants

• Ransom (verb): To demand ransom money for someone.
  • Example: The criminals ransomed the businessman for a hefty sum.
• Ransomer (noun): A person who demands ransom.
  • Example: The ransomer made contact with the family through a phone call.

Different Meanings

While "ransom money" specifically refers to money for someone's return, "ransom" can also be used in a broader sense: - Ransom (noun): A price paid for the release of something valuable, not just people. - Example: The museum paid a ransom to get back the stolen artwork.

Synonyms

• Hostage fee
• Kidnapper's demand
• Blackmail money (though this can also imply extortion in a non-kidnapping context)

Idioms and Phrasal Verbs

• "At a ransom": This idiom means being held against your will until a payment is made.

  • Example: The villagers felt as if their entire community was at a ransom to the bandits.

• "Pay the ransom": To give the demanded money to secure someone's release.

  • Example: They had no choice but to pay the ransom for their son’s safe return.

Summary

"Ransom money" is a term used in serious situations involving crime and safety, specifically referring to money demanded for releasing someone who has been kidnapped. It highlights the desperation and moral dilemmas families face in such situations.

Academic

Noun

1. money demanded for the return of a captured person

Synonyms

• ransom