What context can I use each word in?
Learn when and how to use these words with these examples!
kidnap
Example
The kidnappers demanded a large sum of money in exchange for the safe return of the victim. [kidnappers: noun]
Example
The child was kidnapped on her way home from school. [kidnapped: past participle]
snatch
Example
The thief snatched the woman's purse and ran away. [snatched: past tense]
Example
He managed to snatch the last ticket to the concert before they sold out. [snatch: verb]
Good things to know
Which word is more common?
Snatch is more commonly used than kidnap in everyday language. Snatch is versatile and covers a wide range of contexts, while kidnap is less common and refers to a specific type of crime.
Whatโs the difference in the tone of formality between kidnap and snatch?
Both kidnap and snatch are associated with a serious and formal tone due to their criminal nature. However, kidnap is considered more formal and legalistic than snatch, which can be used in more casual contexts.
