C1verbformal5K

Imprison

UK /["/ɪmˈprɪzn/","/ɪmˈprɪznz/","/ɪmˈprɪznd/","/ɪmˈprɪznɪŋ/"]/US /["/ɪmˈprɪzn/","/ɪmˈprɪznz/","/ɪmˈprɪznd/","/ɪmˈprɪznɪŋ/"]/

Definition

to put somebody in a prison or another place from which they cannot escape

In simple words: To put someone in jail.

Examples

They were imprisoned for a crime they didn't commit.
I feel imprisoned in my own home.
He was imprisoned in a dungeon.
We work on behalf of people who have been wrongly imprisoned.
Her fear virtually imprisoned her in her home.

Usage notes

Use 'imprison' in legal or serious contexts. Avoid using it in casual conversation; instead, say 'put in jail' for informal situations.

Grammar pattern

imprison + object

Memory hint

Sounds like 'in prison' — imagine a locked door with a person inside.

Collocations

falsely
unjustly
wrongfully
for
in

Synonyms

jail

Antonyms

release
free
liberate

Common mistakes

Confused with 'prison' — 'imprison' is a verb.
Using 'imprisoned' without an object, which can sound incomplete.
Mixing it with informal terms in serious discussions.