Word: pleaded (verb, past tense of "plead")

Associations

"Plead" means to ask for something in an emotional or serious way. It is often used when someone is asking for help, mercy, or forgiveness.

• "She pleaded for her dog's life." Here, she is asking very strongly and emotionally.
• "He pleaded guilty in court." This is a legal use, meaning he admitted he did something wrong.
• "They pleaded with the teacher to give more time for the homework." This means they asked earnestly. Synonym: "begged" is very close in meaning. The difference is "pleaded" can sound a bit more formal or serious, especially in legal or emotional situations, while "begged" is more informal and desperate.

Substitution

You can also say:

• begged — more informal and emotional.
• appealed — more formal, often used in legal or official contexts.
• implored — very strong, emotional asking. Changing the word changes the tone: "pleaded" is serious, "begged" is more emotional, "appealed" is formal.

Deconstruction

"Plead" comes from Old French "plaider," meaning to argue or speak in court. The "-ed" ending shows past tense, meaning the action already happened. So "pleaded" means someone already asked seriously or emotionally.

Inquiry

• When have you pleaded for something important?
• How is pleading different from just asking politely?
• Can you think of a situation where pleading might not work? Why?