C1verb5K

UK/["/ˈkɪdnæp/","/ˈkɪdnæps/","/ˈkɪdnæpt/","/ˈkɪdnæpɪŋ/"]/US/["/ˈkɪdnæp/","/ˈkɪdnæps/","/ˈkɪdnæpt/","/ˈkɪdnæpɪŋ/"]/

Meaning of Kidnap

to take somebody away illegally and keep them as a prisoner, especially in order to get money or something else for returning them

In simple words: To take someone away by force, often for a crime.

Kidnap in a sentence

  • Two businessmen have been kidnapped by terrorists.
  • The terrorists were planning to kidnap one of the president’s sons.

How to use Kidnap

Use 'kidnap' in serious contexts, often related to crime. Avoid in casual conversations as it may come off as insensitive. Also, 'kidnapping' is the act, while 'kidnapper' is the person who does it.

Grammar pattern

kidnap + object

Memory hint

Think of 'kid' and 'nap' — imagine a child being taken while sleeping.

Related words

Collocations with Kidnap

  • kidnap victim
  • attempted kidnapping
  • kidnap for ransom
  • kidnapper's demand
  • high-profile kidnapping

Synonyms for Kidnap

  • abduct, seize

Opposites of Kidnap

Common mistakes with Kidnap

  • Confusing 'kidnap' with 'abduct' which can have a wider context.
  • Using it in a light-hearted context, which is inappropriate.
  • Incorrectly using 'kidnap' as a noun; it is a verb.

Kidnap appears in

Kidnap in other languages

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Frequently asked questions about Kidnap

What does Kidnap mean?

To take someone away by force, often for a crime.

What is the definition of Kidnap?

to take somebody away illegally and keep them as a prisoner, especially in order to get money or something else for returning them

How do you use Kidnap in a sentence?

Two businessmen have been kidnapped by terrorists.

Can you give another example of Kidnap?

The terrorists were planning to kidnap one of the president’s sons.

What are synonyms for Kidnap?

Common alternatives include abduct, seize.

What is the opposite of Kidnap?

Opposite meanings include release, free, liberate.

What words go with Kidnap?

It commonly pairs with kidnap victim, attempted kidnapping, kidnap for ransom, kidnapper's demand, high-profile kidnapping.

What are common mistakes when using Kidnap?

Confusing 'kidnap' with 'abduct' which can have a wider context. Using it in a light-hearted context, which is inappropriate. Incorrectly using 'kidnap' as a noun; it is a verb.

How do you pronounce Kidnap?

US: /["/ˈkɪdnæp/","/ˈkɪdnæps/","/ˈkɪdnæpt/","/ˈkɪdnæpɪŋ/"]/, UK: /["/ˈkɪdnæp/","/ˈkɪdnæps/","/ˈkɪdnæpt/","/ˈkɪdnæpɪŋ/"]/. Listen to the audio above to hear native pronunciation.

When should I use Kidnap?

Use 'kidnap' in serious contexts, often related to crime. Avoid in casual conversations as it may come off as insensitive. Also, 'kidnapping' is the act, while 'kidnapper' is the person who does it.

What CEFR level is Kidnap?

"Kidnap" is at C1 level on the CEFR scale.