release him

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "release him" is correct and usable in written English.
You can use it when referring to the act of setting someone free or allowing them to go, often in a legal or formal context. Example: "After reviewing the evidence, the judge decided to release him from custody."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

"Release him".

The New York Times

But she didn't release him.

The New Yorker

They could release him.

The New York Times - Sports

You can't just release him.

The New Yorker

They release him into manhood.

The Guardian - Books

Few expected Bahrain's autocrats to release him.

The Economist

Stumbras insists it won't release him.

The New York Times - Sports

But they didn't release him," said Legut.

The Guardian

It was their decision to release him.

The Guardian

It cost $35,000 to release him.

The Guardian

We urge his captors to release him".

The Guardian

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "release him", ensure the context clearly indicates who is holding the person and why they are being released. For example, specify if it's from prison, captivity, or a contract.

Common error

Avoid using "release him" when a different term is more appropriate, such as "dismiss him" from a job or "exclude him" from a list. "Release" usually implies a form of confinement or obligation.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "release him" functions as a verb phrase where "release" is the verb and "him" is the direct object. It indicates the action of setting someone free. As Ludwig AI confirms, this phrase is grammatically correct and widely used.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

95%

Science

2%

Wiki

1%

Less common in

Academia

1%

Formal & Business

1%

Encyclopedias

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The phrase "release him" is a common and grammatically correct expression used to describe the act of setting someone free from a form of confinement or obligation. Ludwig AI confirms its validity and widespread usage, particularly in news and media contexts. While versatile, it's important to consider the specific context to ensure "release" is the most appropriate term, as other options like "set him free" or "let him go" may be more fitting. Its neutral register makes it suitable for both formal and informal communication, though maintaining clarity about who is being released and from what situation is crucial for effective use.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

set him free

Emphasizes the act of liberation, often from captivity or oppression.

let him go

A more general term for allowing someone to leave, without necessarily implying imprisonment.

free him from custody

Specifically refers to releasing someone from legal detention.

discharge him

Often used in a formal or legal context, similar to releasing from custody or service.

acquit him

Refers to a legal judgment of not guilty, leading to release.

exonerate him

Implies clearing someone of blame or wrongdoing, resulting in their release.

authorize his departure

A formal way to state that someone is allowed to leave.

permit him to leave

Similar to 'let him go', but slightly more formal.

grant him freedom

Highlights the granting of liberty.

allow him to escape

Suggests a less formal or even clandestine release.

FAQs

What does "release him" mean?

The phrase "release him" means to allow someone to be free, often from a form of confinement or obligation, such as prison, captivity, or a contract.

When is it appropriate to use the phrase "release him"?

It's appropriate to use "release him" when someone is being held against their will or under some form of duress and is then allowed to go free. For instance, a prisoner being released from jail or a hostage being released by captors.

What are some alternatives to "release him"?

You can use alternatives like "set him free", "let him go", or "free him from custody" depending on the context.

Is "release him" formal or informal?

The phrase "release him" is generally neutral in tone and can be used in both formal and informal contexts, though more formal situations might benefit from alternatives such as "discharge him" or "authorize his departure".