What is another word for hostage?
Pronunciation: [hˈɒstɪd͡ʒ] (IPA) 
Hostage is a word with deeply negative connotations, referring to a situation where an individual or group is forcibly held for ransom or as leverage in a larger conflict. While there are many synonyms for hostage, most carry similar negative undertones, like captive, prisoner, detainee, and abductee. Other possible synonyms include pawn, victim, abductee, and detainee. However, it's also possible to frame this concept in more neutral terms, such as referring to people as "held persons" or "detained individuals." Ultimately, the use of any of these synonyms should be carefully considered in the broader context of how language is wielded to represent and frame complex situations.
