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plead

verb

/pliːd/

IPA:

Dictionary definition of plead

To make a formal, earnest, or emotional request or appeal for something, often in a legal or formal context.
"He would plead with her to give their relationship another chance."

Detailed meaning of plead

It involves presenting one's case, desires, or grievances with sincerity and often involves supplication or begging. In legal settings, such as a court of law, individuals may plead their case to a judge or jury, either as a defendant pleading not guilty or as a plaintiff pleading for redress. Outside of legal contexts, people can plead for various things, like forgiveness, mercy, understanding, or assistance. Pleading can involve using persuasive arguments, emotional appeals, or heartfelt pleas to achieve the desired outcome. It's a form of communication that seeks a favorable response or resolution from another party, and it often conveys a sense of urgency or importance.

Example sentences containing plead

1. She will plead for leniency in her brother's sentencing.
2. The lawyer will plead the case passionately in court.
3. He pleaded with his parents to let him go to the concert.
4. The defendant plans to plead not guilty to the charges.
5. She can't help but plead for more time to finish the project.
6. The activist will plead for urgent climate action at the conference.

History and etymology of plead

The verb 'plead' has its etymological origins in Old English and can be traced back to the word 'plegan,' which meant 'to argue' or 'to discuss.' This Old English term was influenced by the Latin word 'placitare,' derived from 'placere,' meaning 'to please' or 'to be agreeable.' In the context of 'plead,' the idea is to make a persuasive argument or earnest request, often in a legal or formal setting, with the aim of pleasing or convincing an authority or audience. Over time, 'plead' evolved to encompass the act of making formal, emotional, or earnest appeals, such as in legal proceedings or other formal contexts. The etymology of 'plead' reflects its historical connection to the art of making convincing arguments and appeals, emphasizing the earnest and often emotional nature of the request.

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Further usage examples of plead

1. The teacher had to plead for order in the chaotic classroom.
2. The victim's family will plead for justice in the upcoming trial.
3. He'll plead for forgiveness after his mistake at work.
4. The beggar on the street corner will plead for spare change.
5. The coach will plead with the team to give their best effort in the game.
6. The defendant would plead not guilty in court.
7. She would plead for forgiveness, tears streaming down her face.
8. The child would plead with his parents to let him stay up past his bedtime.
9. He would plead with his boss for a raise.
10. She would plead with her friend to accompany her to the event.
11. The employee would plead for leniency after making a mistake.
12. The prisoner would plead for clemency before his sentencing.
13. He would plead with the doctor to find a cure for his illness.
14. She would plead for her parents' approval of her relationship.
15. The student would plead with the professor to extend the deadline for the assignment.
16. He would plead with the judge for a reduced sentence.
17. The homeowner would plead with the insurance company to cover the damages.
18. She would plead with her landlord to fix the broken plumbing.
19. The athlete would plead with the coach to give him another chance.
20. He would plead with his friends to help him with his business venture.
21. She would plead with her siblings to attend their family reunion.
22. The customer would plead with the store manager to issue a refund.
23. He would plead with his partner to reconsider ending their relationship.
24. She would plead with her professor to let her retake the exam.