release
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release
The release of a person or animal from captivity, detention, or confinement.
Die Demonstranten forderten die sofortige Freilassung der politischen Gefangenen.
The demonstrators demanded the immediate release of the political prisoners.
The word is made up of 'frei' (free) and 'Lassung'. The part 'Lassung' is derived from the verb 'lassen' (to let/leave). 'Freilassung' (release) therefore literally means to 'frei zu lassen' (set free) someone or something.
Die Tierschützer feierten die Freilassung der Delfine.
The animal rights activists celebrated the release of the dolphins.
Common verbs used with 'Freilassung' (release) are 'fordern' (to demand), 'verhandeln' (to negotiate), 'erreichen' (to achieve/secure), or 'anordnen' (to order). These combinations describe the process that leads to liberation.
Die Anwältin konnte die Freilassung ihres Mandanten erreichen.
The lawyer was able to secure her client's release.
To specify who is being released, the genitive is usually used. This structure is very common in news reports and official reports.
Die Nachricht über die Freilassung der Journalisten verbreitete sich schnell.
The news about the release of the journalists spread quickly.
freedom
'die Freiheit' and 'die Freilassung' are both connected with the end of captivity, but they do not refer to the same thing. 'Freiheit' is the state: a person or animal is no longer locked up and can move around. 'Freilassung' is the process or event: someone is released from custody or captivity. So after the 'Freilassung' (release), you can live in 'Freiheit' (freedom). The risk of confusion arises because both words appear in news stories about prisoners or animals. Memory aid: 'Freilassung' is the moment, 'Freiheit' is the state afterward.
Die Familie wartet noch auf die Freilassung des Gefangenen.
The family is still waiting for the prisoner's release.
Nach vielen Jahren im Gefängnis genießt er seine Freiheit.
After many years in prison, he is enjoying his freedom.