ransom

/'rænsəm/

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Understanding the Word "Ransom"

Definition: "Ransom" is primarily a noun that refers to money demanded for the release of a person who has been captured or held hostage. It can also refer to the act of freeing someone from captivity or punishment through payment. As a verb, "to ransom" means to exchange or buy back someone for money, usually under threat.

Usage Instructions:

• Use "ransom" as a noun when talking about the money or the act of paying for someone's release.
• Use "ransom" as a verb when describing the action of paying to free someone.

Examples:

1. As a noun:
   • "The kidnappers asked for a large ransom for the safe return of the child."
2. As a verb:
   • "They were able to ransom the stolen goods back from the thieves."

Advanced Usage:

• In legal or formal contexts, "ransom" can refer to any form of payment made to release someone or something, not just in criminal situations.
• In literature, "ransom" might be used metaphorically to describe the cost of freedom from any form of restriction or control.

Word Variants:

• Ransomer (noun): A person who pays the ransom.
• Ransomware (noun): A type of malicious software that demands a ransom to restore access to data.

Different Meanings:

• Ransom can also be used metaphorically to describe a situation where one must give something up or pay a price (not necessarily in money) to gain freedom or release from an obligation.

Synonyms:

• Payment
• Tribute
• Redemption (in some contexts)

Idioms and Phrasal Verbs:

• "Ransom note": A letter sent by kidnappers that demands payment for the release of a person.
• "Pay the ransom": To give money to free someone who has been captured.
• "Ransom one's life": A phrase that can be used metaphorically to describe a situation where someone must take extreme measures to escape a difficult situation.

Academic

Noun

1. the act of freeing from captivity or punishment
2. payment for the release of someone
3. money demanded for the return of a captured person

Verb

1. exchange or buy back for money; under threat

Synonyms

• ransom money
• redeem