The antonyms of "takes captive" include "releases," "frees," "relinquishes," "delivers," "unburdens," and "liberates." These words indicate the opposite meaning of "takes captive," which denotes the action of forcibly detaining someone against their will. On the other hand, the antonyms imply setting someone free or rescuing them from confinement. These words can be used in various contexts, such as war, imprisonment, kidnapping, and animal capture. For instance, when a hostage is freed or when a wild animal is released back into the wild, the opposite of "takes captive" can be used. The antonyms represent acts of kindness, charity, or justice to those who have been captured or enslaved.