Cool MateCaptive vs Hostage
When to use each in English, with meaning, register, and examples.
| Captive | Hostage | |
|---|---|---|
| Meaning | Being held or kept in one place and unable to leave. | A person who is kept as a prisoner to force others to do something. |
| CEFR level | B1 | C1 |
| Part of speech | adjective | noun |
| Usage notes | Used to describe animals, people, or situations where someone is trapped or unable to escape. | Used in contexts involving crime or negotiation. Avoid in casual conversations unless discussing serious events. Common in news reports or discussions about security. |
Frequently asked questions: Captive vs Hostage
What's the difference between "Captive" and "Hostage"?
"Captive" means: Being held or kept in one place and unable to leave. "Hostage" means: A person who is kept as a prisoner to force others to do something.
When should I use "Captive" and "Hostage"?
They can all be used in everyday English.
Are "Captive" and "Hostage" the same CEFR level?
"Captive" is at B1, "Hostage" is at C1 on the CEFR scale.