How to Say "ransom" in Spanish
The most common Spanish word for “ransom” is “rescate” — use 'rescate' when referring to the payment demanded for the release of someone who has been kidnapped or captured.
English → Spanish
rescate
res-KAH-tehresˈka.te
nounB2general
Use 'rescate' when referring to the payment demanded for the release of someone who has been kidnapped or captured.
Examples
Los secuestradores exigieron un rescate millonario.
The kidnappers demanded a million-dollar ransom.
El rescate se pagó en efectivo para asegurar la liberación.
The ransom was paid in cash to ensure the release.
Dual Meaning
Remember that 'rescate' can mean both the act of saving (rescue) and the money paid to save someone (ransom). Context is key!
redención
nounC1formal
Use 'redención' when the context implies a more profound or spiritual liberation, or the act of freeing someone through payment, often in a historical or literary sense.
Examples
Pagaron una gran suma por la redención del cautivo.
They paid a large sum for the ransom of the captive.
Rescate vs. Redención
Learners often confuse 'rescate' and 'redención' because both involve payment for freedom. Remember that 'rescate' is the everyday term for kidnapping ransoms, while 'redención' is more formal and often used for freeing captives in a broader or more significant sense.
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