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plea

noun

/pli/

IPA:

Dictionary definition of plea

An earnest and emotional request or appeal made by an individual to another person, authority, or entity.
"The defendant made a heartfelt plea for leniency during the sentencing hearing."

Detailed meaning of plea

It involves expressing a heartfelt desire, often accompanied by a sense of urgency or desperation, in the hope of eliciting understanding, empathy, or a favorable response. Pleas can be made in various contexts, such as legal proceedings, personal relationships, or situations requiring assistance or intervention. A plea can be a passionate entreaty for help, forgiveness, mercy, justice, or understanding. It may involve presenting arguments, expressing emotions, or providing supporting evidence to support the request. Pleas can be verbal or written, and they convey the vulnerability and emotional investment of the person making the plea. The effectiveness of a plea often relies on the ability to communicate the depth of one's emotions and the importance of the desired outcome.

Example sentences containing plea

1. She made a desperate plea for help when she found herself stranded in an unfamiliar city.
2. The victim's family issued a public plea for information to help solve the crime.
3. The charity organization made a plea for donations to support their cause.
4. His plea for understanding fell on deaf ears as no one seemed willing to listen.
5. The child's plea for a pet was met with a loving surprise from their parents.
6. The teacher made a plea to the students to turn in their assignments on time.

History and etymology of plea

The noun 'plea' has its etymological origins in the Old French word 'plaid,' which meant a legal action or lawsuit. 'Plaid' itself was derived from the verb 'plaidier,' meaning to plead or argue a case in court. This Old French term can be traced back to the Latin 'placitum,' which referred to a decision, opinion, or judgment. From 'placitum,' the concept of making an earnest and emotional request or appeal evolved, often in a legal context. Over time, 'plea' took on a broader meaning, encompassing any heartfelt request or appeal made by an individual to another person, authority, or entity. Thus, the etymology of 'plea' illustrates its historical connection to legal proceedings and its transformation into a term describing various types of impassioned requests or appeals.

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Further usage examples of plea

1. The environmentalist made a passionate plea for action to protect the planet.
2. The politician's plea for unity and cooperation resonated with the audience.
3. The employee's plea for a raise was met with consideration from the management.
4. The victim's family addressed the court with a tearful plea for justice.
5. The actress made a public plea for privacy in the midst of media scrutiny.
6. His heartfelt plea for forgiveness brought tears to her eyes.
7. The defendant's plea for leniency moved the judge.
8. She made a desperate plea for help as the fire raged on.
9. The charity's plea for donations was met with overwhelming support.
10. His plea for a second chance fell on deaf ears.
11. The mother's plea to find her missing child resonated with the community.
12. The teacher's plea for more classroom resources was heard by the school board.
13. The activist's plea for environmental protection gained national attention.
14. The athlete's heartfelt plea for unity inspired the team.
15. The mayor's plea for calm during the protest quelled potential violence.
16. Her plea for understanding in the midst of the argument was ignored.
17. The prisoner's plea for his innocence fell on skeptical ears.
18. The refugee's plea for asylum was reviewed by immigration officials.
19. His emotional plea for reconciliation moved even the harshest critic.
20. The scientist's plea for funding to combat a deadly disease was urgent.
21. She made a sincere plea for kindness and compassion in the workplace.
22. The victim's family made a public plea for justice in the courtroom.
23. The musician's plea for social change was expressed through his lyrics.
24. The community's plea for better safety measures was finally addressed.
25. The parents' heartfelt plea for their child's recovery touched many.