绑架

• Pinyin: bǎng jià
• Hanzi breakdown: 绑 = 纟+ 邦 (to bind); 架 = to seize/frame

Meaning

To kidnap; to abduct; to hold hostage.

The criminal act of taking someone by force, usually for ransom. Also used figuratively for situations where someone is forced or coerced (moral kidnapping).

Examples

1. 警方成功解救了被绑架的人质。 The police successfully rescued the kidnapped hostage.
2. 他被网络舆论道德绑架，不得不道歉。 He was morally coerced by online public opinion and had to apologize.
3. 绑架犯已经被逮捕归案。 The kidnapper has been arrested and brought to justice.

Usage Guide

Context: crime, figurative

Tone: serious

Do Say

• 那是一起绑架案。(That was a kidnapping case.)
• 别被道德绑架。(Don't be guilt-tripped.)

Don't Say

• 把开玩笑的限制说成'绑架' (Don't use 绑架 for playful restrictions — it's a serious term)

Origin & History

绑 (to tie/bind) + 架 (to seize/frame). To bind and seize someone.

Cultural Context

Generation: All ages

Social background: Universal