C1verb5K

Kidnap

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

Definition

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.

Examples

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

Usage notes

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.

Collocations

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

Synonyms

  • abduct, seize

Antonyms

  • release
  • free
  • liberate

Common mistakes

  • 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.