Captives: meaning, definitions and examples

Used to describe individuals who are held against their will in a general sense, often in the context of warfare or kidnapping.

• The soldiers were taken as captives during the battle
• The captives were held in a remote location

Used for individuals who are legally detained and held in prison as a result of committing a crime or awaiting trial.

• The prisoners are kept under strict surveillance
• After his trial, he was taken to prison as a convicted prisoner

Specifically refers to individuals who are taken and held as security for the fulfillment of specific demands, typically in a criminal or terrorist context.

• The kidnappers demanded a ransom for the release of the hostages
• Negotiators are working to free the hostages

Refers to individuals who are held in custody or detention, often by law enforcement or security officials, usually on legal or administrative grounds.

• The airport authorities questioned the detainees
• Detainees have rights that must be respected

Used when referring to people who have been taken prisoner, especially during a war or conflict. The term can apply to both military and civilian individuals held against their will.

• During the raid, several captives were taken by the opposing forces.
• The captives were held in a small cell without any light.

Usually describes individuals who have suffered harm, injury, or loss as a result of a crime, accident, or disaster. This term carries a sympathetic and often solemn connotation.

• The victims of the earthquake were provided with temporary shelters.
• He became a victim of a scam and lost all his savings.

Describes individuals who are owned by someone else and forced to work without pay. This term is heavily loaded with historical and negative connotations and is often used when discussing historical contexts or human rights abuses.

• Slaves were forced to work long hours under harsh conditions.
• The museum has an exhibit about the history of slaves in the region.

Primarily used in historical or monarchical contexts to refer to individuals who are under the rule of a sovereign or government. It signifies allegiance and subjugation to a higher authority.

• The king addressed his subjects from the royal balcony.
• All the subjects were required to pay taxes to the monarchy.