How is kidnapping legally defined?

Kidnapping is legally defined as the unlawful taking or transportation of a person against their will. This definition encompasses various elements that are crucial for understanding the act. Firstly, the term "unlawful" signifies that the action is illegal and violates the rights of the individual being taken. Secondly, the phrase "against their will" emphasizes that the person does not consent to the action, which is a critical factor that differentiates kidnapping from other forms of relocation or transportation.

This definition is important because it highlights the coercive nature of the act and establishes that consent is a key factor in determining the legality of the situation. Other choices provided may imply various scenarios where there is consent or legality involved, which are fundamentally different from the crime of kidnapping.