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Abduction: meaning, definitions and examples

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abduction

 

[əbˈdʌkʃ(ə)n ]

Definitions

Context #1 | Noun

criminal law

The action or an instance of forcibly taking someone away against their will.

Synonyms

kidnapping, seizure, snatching.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

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Word Description / Examples
abduction

This term is commonly used in legal and official situations to describe the illegal taking away of a person, usually involving deception or force.

  • The police solved the case of the child's abduction
  • International abduction cases often require complex legal processes
kidnapping

Frequently used in everyday language and media to describe the act of taking someone away illegally, often demanding ransom. It can also carry a slightly more violent or dramatic connotation.

  • The gang was arrested for kidnapping the businessman
  • Stories of kidnapping are often dramatized in movies
seizure

In the context of taking a person, this term may refer to a sudden and forceful capture, often by authorities or in military actions. It can also refer to the confiscation of property.

  • The militants planned a seizure of the hostages
snatching

This term implies a quick and often public act of taking something or someone forcefully. It is less formal and can sometimes be used to describe petty theft.

  • The child was snatching by the stranger in a crowded market
  • Purse snatching is a common crime in that area

Examples of usage

  • The police are investigating the abduction of a young girl from her school.
  • The family received a ransom demand following the abduction of their son.
Context #2 | Noun

medicine

The movement of a limb or other part away from the midline of the body.

Synonyms

extension, outward movement.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

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Word Description / Examples
abduction

Typically used in a medical or biological context to refer to the movement of a limb or other part away from the midline of the body.

  • The physical therapist explained that abduction exercises would help strengthen her shoulder muscles.
  • During the examination, the doctor noticed a limited range of abduction in the patient's hip.
outward movement

A general phrase that can be applied in various scenarios, including physical actions, logical reasoning, or even abstract ideas.

  • The door's outward movement indicated that someone had just left the room.
  • In her speech, she encouraged outward movement in our thinking to embrace new ideas.
extension

Commonly used in exercise, sports, and anatomy to describe the action of straightening or extending a limb or body part.

  • The gymnast performed a flawless leg extension during her routine.
  • Extension of the arm can be a good stretch for the triceps muscles.

Examples of usage

  • The abduction of the arm is necessary for some physical therapy exercises.
  • The doctor assessed the patient's range of motion by testing abduction and adduction.

Interesting Facts

Etymology

  • The word comes from the Latin 'abductio', which means 'to lead away' or 'take away'.
  • The prefix 'ab-' means 'away from', while 'ductio' comes from 'ducere', meaning 'to lead'.
  • This term has been used since the 15th century in English, originally referring to stealing cattle.

Psychology

  • Abduction can lead to long-term emotional and psychological trauma for victims and their families.
  • The fear of abduction is often reflected in children's behavior, making them more cautious and anxious around strangers.
  • Studies indicate that parental abduction cases are emotionally complex and often involve disputes over custody.

Legal Perspectives

  • In law, abduction is a crime that can involve either the illegal taking of a person or the unlawful retention of a person’s custody.
  • Legislations against abduction vary around the world, with strict penalties in many countries.
  • Civil abduction cases often arise in custody disputes, where one parent takes a child without the other's consent.

Media and Culture

  • Films and literature frequently explore the theme of abduction, often portraying intense emotional and moral dilemmas.
  • Popular media, such as TV shows and books, frequently glamorizes or sensationalizes abduction stories, impacting public perception.
  • High-profile abduction cases, like kidnappings of children, have led to increased awareness and legislation regarding child protection.

Statistics

  • According to the FBI, millions of children are reported missing each year, with a small percentage involving abduction.
  • Most abductions are committed by someone known to the victim, emphasizing the importance of community and familial awareness.
  • National and international organizations work tirelessly to combat abduction and support victims through various resources.

Translations

Translations of the word "abduction" in other languages:

🇵🇹 abdução

🇮🇳 अपहरण

🇩🇪 Entführung

🇮🇩 penculikan

🇺🇦 викрадення

🇵🇱 porwanie

🇯🇵 誘拐 (ゆうかい)

🇫🇷 enlèvement

🇪🇸 secuestro

🇹🇷 kaçırma

🇰🇷 납치

🇸🇦 اختطاف

🇨🇿 únos

🇸🇰 únos

🇨🇳 绑架 (bǎngjià)

🇸🇮 ugrabitev

🇮🇸 mannrán

🇰🇿 ұрлау

🇬🇪 მოტაცება

🇦🇿 adam oğurluğu

🇲🇽 secuestro

Word Frequency Rank

With rank #15,713, this word belongs to specialized vocabulary. While not common in everyday speech, it enriches your ability to express complex ideas.