Jose Carillo's English Forum

Joe Carillo's Desk => You Asked Me This Question => Topic started by: blog on August 23, 2010, 05:34:34 PM

Title: freed or released
Post by: blog on August 23, 2010, 05:34:34 PM

I just want to ask if there's a difference in usage between the words "freed" and "released"?

Which is correct in this sentence?

Quote

The kidnappers freed/released one hostage.

I'm not sure but I think there's a slight difference.

Title: Re: freed or released
Post by: Joe Carillo on August 23, 2010, 08:03:43 PM

In the context of hostage-taking, "freed" and "released" are synonymous, both meaning "set free from restraint or confinement." There's hardly any difference between the two verbs in this particular instance.