deliver

Frequently Asked Questions About deliver

How does the verb deliver contrast with its synonyms?

Some common synonyms of deliver are ransom, reclaim, redeem, rescue, and save. While all these words mean "to set free from confinement or danger," deliver implies release usually of a person from confinement, temptation, slavery, or suffering.

delivered his people from bondage

When can ransom be used instead of deliver?

The words ransom and deliver are synonyms, but do differ in nuance. Specifically, ransom specifically applies to buying out of captivity.

tried to ransom the kidnap victim

Where would reclaim be a reasonable alternative to deliver?

In some situations, the words reclaim and deliver are roughly equivalent. However, reclaim suggests a bringing back to a former state or condition of someone or something abandoned or debased.

reclaimed long-abandoned farms

When is it sensible to use redeem instead of deliver?

The synonyms redeem and deliver are sometimes interchangeable, but redeem implies releasing from bondage or penalties by giving what is demanded or necessary.

job training designed to redeem school dropouts from chronic unemployment

In what contexts can rescue take the place of deliver?

The words rescue and deliver can be used in similar contexts, but rescue implies freeing from imminent danger by prompt or vigorous action.

rescued the crew of a sinking ship

When could save be used to replace deliver?

Although the words save and deliver have much in common, save may replace any of the foregoing terms; it may further imply a preserving or maintaining for usefulness or continued existence.

an operation that saved my life