The spelling of the phrase "takes prisoner" is a combination of the phonetic sounds of each individual word. "Takes" is pronounced /teɪks/, where the "a" is pronounced as the diphthong "ae" and the "k" sound is plosive, meaning it's made by a sudden release of air. "Prisoner" is pronounced /ˈprɪzənər/, with a soft "s" sound and a slightly elongated "i" sound. Altogether, the correct spelling for this phrase is "takes prisoner."
The phrase "takes prisoner" refers to the action of capturing and securing an individual as a prisoner, typically in a time of conflict or war. It entails apprehending and holding someone against their will, usually with the intention of gaining control or leverage over an opposing force.
When an individual or a group "takes prisoner," they effectively detain and restrict the freedom of the captured person, often confining them to a designated location such as a prison or detention center. This act can be carried out by military personnel, law enforcement officers, or other armed groups authorized to enforce such actions.
Taking a prisoner implies that the captor has successfully overcome the resistance or defenses of the individual being captured. It involves neutralizing any potential threats or resistance during the process, ensuring the safety of both the captor and the prisoner.
Once a person is taken prisoner, their rights become subject to the conventions and laws of the captor. The treatment of prisoners may vary depending on the context, ranging from humane conditions as stipulated under international humanitarian laws to maltreatment and abuse in extreme cases.
The act of taking a prisoner is a complex ethical issue that encompasses considerations of human rights, international law, and the nature of conflict. Various organizations and treaties have been established to promote the rights and humane treatment of prisoners, aiming to mitigate the potential abuses that can occur during and after the act of taking someone prisoner.
The etymology of the phrase "takes prisoner" can be traced back to the individual words that make up the phrase.
1. Takes: The word "takes" is the third person singular form of the verb "take". It comes from the Old English word "tacan", which means "to grasp, receive, or capture". The Old English word has Germanic roots and can be traced back to the Proto-Germanic word "takanan".
2. Prisoner: The word "prisoner" comes from the Old French word "prisonier", which means "a captive or person held in captivity". It derives from the Latin word "prehensio", meaning "seizure or arrest". The Latin word "prehensio" is derived from the verb "prehendere", which means "to grasp or seize".