What is the Opposite(Antonym) of “detain”?

The Opposite(Antonym) of “detain”

The antonyms of detain are release and free. The antonyms release and free convey the opposite meaning of detain, which is to hold someone in custody or prevent them from leaving.

Explore all Antonyms of “detain”

• release
• free

Definitions and Examples of release, free

Learn when and how to use these words with these examples!

release

To set free from confinement, captivity, or obligation.

Example

The police decided to release the suspect due to lack of evidence.

free

Not under the control or domination of another; able to act or be done as one wishes.

Example

After serving his sentence, he was finally free to start a new life.

Key Differences: release vs free

• 1. Release is a verb that means to set someone free from confinement or captivity.
• 2. Free is an adjective that describes a state of not being under the control or domination of another.

Effective Usage of release, free

• 1. Legal Context: Use detain and release in legal contexts to describe the actions of law enforcement officials.
• 2. Personal Context: Use free to describe a state of independence or autonomy.
• 3. Political Context: Use free to describe a society that values individual rights and freedoms.

📌

Remember this!

The antonyms of detain are release and free. Use release to describe setting someone free from confinement or captivity. Use free to describe a state of independence or autonomy.