release them

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "release them" is correct and usable in written English.
You can use it when referring to letting go of someone or something, often in contexts involving freedom or permission. Example: "After the investigation, the authorities decided to release them from custody."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Wiki

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

Release them today.

The New York Times

I won't release them.

The New York Times - Arts

Otherwise, he should release them.

The New York Times

Alternately, he'll never release them.

The New Yorker

We were obliged to release them all.

The New Yorker

(Mr. Musk has declined to release them).

The New York Times

But it has yet to release them.

The New York Times

They should release them on the schedule".

Independent

After that, release them on probation.

The Economist

— They, like, release them first, said Gerry.

The New Yorker

"They are liars; they won't release them.

The New York Times

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When writing, consider the specific context to choose the most appropriate synonym. While "release them" is versatile, alternatives like "discharge them" or "set them free" may be more fitting depending on the situation.

Common error

Avoid using "release them" when a more specific verb better conveys the intended meaning. For example, instead of saying "release the information", use "disclose the information" or "publish the information".

Linguistic Context

The phrase "release them" primarily functions as a verb phrase, where "release" is the transitive verb and "them" is the object pronoun. Ludwig AI confirms its grammatical correctness and usability in written English.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

60%

Wiki

20%

Formal & Business

10%

Less common in

Science

5%

Encyclopedias

3%

Reference

2%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The phrase "release them" is a grammatically sound and widely used expression signifying the act of freeing someone or something from constraint. As confirmed by Ludwig AI, it's adaptable across various contexts, from freeing prisoners to launching products. However, choosing more specific synonyms like "discharge", "unleash", or "disclose" can enhance clarity and precision. Predominantly found in news and media, its usage spans neutral to formal registers, making it a versatile component of the English lexicon. Remember to consider the context to ensure the most appropriate term is chosen.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

set them free

Emphasizes liberation and freedom, implying a previous state of captivity or restriction.

let them go

A more general term for allowing departure or freedom, without necessarily implying prior confinement.

discharge them

Suggests a formal or official release, such as from a hospital, military service, or legal custody.

free up them

Focuses on making someone available by removing restrictions or obligations.

allow their departure

A more formal and polite way of saying "let them go", often used in official contexts.

authorize their exit

Implies official permission and control over the exit, often used in security or regulated environments.

permit their release

Highlights the granting of permission for release, often used when there are rules or regulations involved.

grant them freedom

Emphasizes the act of bestowing liberty or independence, often used in a metaphorical or symbolic sense.

untie them

Suggests a physical act of freeing someone or something that is bound or restrained.

unleash them

Implies releasing a powerful force or entity that was previously held back or controlled.

FAQs

How can I use "release them" in a sentence?

"Release them" is used to indicate the act of setting someone or something free from confinement or obligation. For example, "The authorities decided to release them after the investigation" or "The company will release them from their contracts".

What's the difference between "release them" and "set them free"?

While both phrases mean to allow someone to be free, "set them free" often implies a more profound sense of liberation from captivity or oppression compared to the more neutral "release them".

Are there more formal alternatives to "release them"?

Yes, depending on the context, more formal alternatives to "release them" include "discharge them", "authorize their exit", or "permit their release".

When is it inappropriate to use "release them"?

It may be inappropriate to use "release them" when referring to information. In such cases, use specific terms like "disclose", "publish", or "reveal". For instance, "release the document" should be "disclose the document".