What context can I use each word in?
Learn when and how to use these words with these examples!
enlèvement
Example
L'enlèvement de l'enfant a été signalé à la police. [enlèvement: noun]
Example
Les travailleurs ont procédé à l'enlèvement des débris après la tempête. [enlèvement: noun]
Example
Le groupe terroriste a revendiqué l'enlèvement du diplomate étranger. [enlèvement: noun]
abduction
Example
The abduction of the heiress shocked the nation. [abduction: noun]
Example
The kidnappers demanded a ransom for the safe return of the child. [abduction: noun]
Example
The company was sued for the illegal abduction of the employee's personal data. [abduction: noun]
Good things to know
Which word is more common?
Abduction is more commonly used than enlèvement in everyday English language. Abduction is versatile and covers a wide range of contexts, while enlèvement is less common and is mostly used in legal contexts in France.
What’s the difference in the tone of formality between enlèvement and abduction?
Both enlèvement and abduction are formal words that are often used in legal contexts. However, enlèvement may be considered more formal due to its French origin and association with the French legal system.
