01
freilassen
to release
To release a person or animal from captivity, detention, or an enclosure into freedom.
example
Der Zoo hat den genesenen Vogel wieder in der Wildnis freigelassen.
The zoo released the recovered bird back into the wild.
freilassen
to release
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Meanings
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Usage tips
Separable verb
'Freilassen' (to release) is a separable verb. The prefix 'frei-' comes at the end in a main clause. In subordinate clauses and in the infinitive with 'zu', the verb stays together.
EXAMPLE
Der Fischer lässt den kleinen Fisch wieder frei.
The fisherman releases the small fish again.
Word structure
The verb is made up of 'frei' (free) and 'lassen' (to let/leave). The meaning is literal: to let someone or something become free, or to release them into freedom.
EXAMPLE
Nach dem Ende des Experiments wurden die Versuchstiere freigelassen.
After the end of the experiment, the test animals were released.
Typical collocations
In this meaning, 'freilassen' (to release) is often combined with living beings. Typical phrases are 'Tiere in die Wildnis freilassen' (to release animals into the wild), 'Gefangene freilassen' (to release prisoners), or 'Geiseln freilassen' (to release hostages).
EXAMPLE
Die Organisation kämpft dafür, die politischen Gefangenen freizulassen.
The organization is fighting to have the political prisoners released.
Technical context
This meaning is used almost exclusively in scientific or technical contexts. The object is then usually something abstract such as 'Energie' (energy), 'Wärme' (heat), or chemical 'Stoffe' (substances).
EXAMPLE
Wenn das Material erhitzt wird, lässt es Gase frei.
When the material is heated, it releases gases.
Compare with
freilassen vs fangen
to catch
'fangen' and 'freilassen' form a clear contrast here. With 'fangen', you put an animal or a person into a situation where it or they can no longer get away. With 'freilassen', you end this captivity again and give freedom back. This contrast fits especially with animals, prisoners, or people being held. In short: when catching, you take freedom away; when releasing, you give it back.
freilassen
Nach der Behandlung lässt die Tierärztin den Vogel wieder frei.
After the treatment, the vet releases the bird again.
fangen
Der Junge fängt den verletzten Vogel vorsichtig mit einem Tuch.
The boy carefully catches the injured bird with a cloth.
In real life
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