Antonyms for the term "choke hold" would include words such as free, release, loosen, let go, and breathe. These words suggest the opposite of the intense restriction that comes with a choke hold. Alternative antonyms could include gentle restraint or protective embrace, which implies control without causing harm. The use of choke holds has been a controversial topic, especially in law enforcement. The negative implications of the term have resulted in many departments across the world to prohibit the use of choke holds entirely. Choosing to use alternate methods of restraint may reduce the risk of causing harm to the person being apprehended.