held hostage for money crossword clue – All Crossword Answers
Welcome to Crosswordanswer.co.uk! Below you'll find the most accurate and comprehensive solutions for the crossword clue "held hostage for money crossword clue", along with detailed explanations to help you understand the answer better and improve your crossword skills.
Solutions for "held hostage for money crossword clue" by Letter Count
6 Letters
RANSOM: The payment or money demanded for the release of a captive, perfectly fitting the clue 'held hostage for money'.
KIDNAP: To abduct (a person) and hold them captive, often implying the intent for a ransom payment, making it a plausible alternative depending on the clue's nuance.
More About "held hostage for money crossword clue"
The concept of holding someone hostage for money, or demanding a ransom, is deeply embedded in human history and literature. From ancient tales of piracy to modern thrillers, the act signifies a high-stakes negotiation where a human life or freedom is exchanged for financial gain. In crosswords, clues like "held hostage for money" are designed to immediately bring to mind the specific term that encapsulates this exchange.
The word "RANSOM" itself originates from Old French, meaning "redemption" or "deliverance." Its direct connection to monetary payment in exchange for a captive makes it a straightforward and common answer for such clues. While other words like "kidnap" describe the act of taking someone captive, "ransom" specifically addresses the financial motive highlighted by "for money" in the clue.
Understanding the precise meaning of each word and how it relates to the entire phrase of a crossword clue is key. "Held hostage" sets the scene, and "for money" provides the critical differentiator that points towards a specific financial transaction, rather than just an abduction.
Tips For Your Next Puzzle
- Analyze Every Word: Break down the clue "held hostage for money" into its components. "Held hostage" suggests abduction, while "for money" narrows it down to a financial transaction. Each word provides vital hints.
- Consider Synonyms and Related Concepts: Think of all words associated with holding captives or demanding money. This mental brainstorming can lead you to the correct answer, even if it's not immediately obvious.
- Check Letter Count: Once you have a potential answer like RANSOM (6 letters), verify if its length matches the available spaces in the puzzle. This is a crucial step in confirming your solution.
- Look for Directness: Crossword clues often seek the most direct and precise answer. For "held hostage for money," RANSOM is highly direct because it explicitly includes the financial aspect.
For more advice, visit our page on general crossword strategies.
Frequently Asked Questions
What does 'held hostage for money' typically refer to in crosswords?
In crossword puzzles, 'held hostage for money' almost always points to the word RANSOM, which is the sum of money demanded for the release of a captive. It's a very direct clue for this specific term.
Are there other common words for taking someone hostage that might fit similar clues?
Yes, other common words related to taking someone hostage include KIDNAP, ABDUCT, or SEIZE. However, the specific phrase 'for money' in the clue is a strong indicator for RANSOM, making it the most precise answer in many cases.
How can understanding the context help solve 'held hostage for money' and similar clues?
Understanding the context, such as 'for money', is crucial. This phrase immediately directs you towards a financial motive, strongly indicating RANSOM over other verbs like kidnap which might not necessarily involve money as part of their primary definition. Always look for specific contextual hints.