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hold hostage

VERB
imprison
Synonyms
STRONGEST
apprehend commit detain hold incarcerate jail lock up remand
STRONG
cage check circumscribe closet constrain curb ice immure impound intern keep limit nab occlude pen restrain stockade trammel
WEAK
bastille bottle up fence in hold captive hold in custody keep captive keep in custody lock in put away put behind bars rail in send to prison send up shut in take prisoner
Antonyms
STRONGEST
cease free let go liberate release stop
STRONG
aid allow assist help permit

Example Sentences

Examples are provided to illustrate real-world usage of words in context. Any opinions expressed do not reflect the views of Dictionary.com.

“We should not hold hostage matters of global concern because of differences between our two countries.”

From New York Times • Aug. 6, 2022

“We should not hold hostage cooperation on matters of global concern because of differences between our two countries,” Blinken said.

From Washington Times • Aug. 6, 2022

Your house is a thing—yes, a thing imbued with memory and meaning, but it shouldn’t hold hostage your ability to retire comfortably.

From Slate • Nov. 5, 2014

"Chesapeake is seeking to use their designation as operator as a shield," to stall development and "hold hostage the minerals of the state," Ogwyn said.

From Reuters • Feb. 25, 2014

He has proved in the past that he has the patience, stamina and staying power needed to hold hostage negotiations.

From Time Magazine Archive