der Gefangene
Translation
prisoner, captive
Examples
Die Gefangenen wurden freigelassen.
The prisoners were released.
Der Wärter spricht mit den Gefangenen.
The guard is speaking with the prisoners.
Grammar Patterns
((nominative plural)) The prisoners... Die Gefangenen sind frei.
((dative plural)) to the prisoners... Der Staat hilft den Gefangenen.
((accusative plural)) the prisoners... Man lässt die Gefangenen frei.
Similar Words
Synonyms: der Häftling (inmate), der Insasse (inmate)
Etymology
A nominalized adjective, from 'gefangen', the past participle of 'fangen' (to catch). It literally means 'a caught one'.
Memory Tips
Think of the verb 'fangen' (to catch). Someone who has been 'gefangen' is a 'Gefangene' (a prisoner).