Beseech Meaning: Definition, Examples, and Translations

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beseech

[bɪˈsiːtʃ ]

Definitions

^{Context #1 | Verb}

formal

To ask someone urgently and fervently to do something; implore; entreat.

Synonyms

beg, entreat, implore, plead, request.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

Word	Description / Examples
beseech	Used in formal or literary contexts to show earnest or desperate appeal. I beseech you to reconsider your decision
implore	Used in more emotional or dramatic situations, emphasizing desperation or strong feeling. She implored him to stay
entreat	Used in formal or old-fashioned contexts, often implies a sincere and earnest request. I entreat you to listen to my explanation
beg	Used in everyday conversations, often showing a sense of humility or desperation. I beg you, please help me
plead	Often used in legal or emotional contexts, usually denotes a serious or urgent request. The lawyer pleaded with the judge for leniency
request	Used in formal or neutral contexts, generally for polite or official asks. I would like to request a meeting with the manager

Examples of usage

She beseeched him to stay and talk.
I beseech you to reconsider your decision.
He beseeched her forgiveness for his mistake.

^{Context #2 | Verb}

literary

To address an earnest or urgent request to (someone).

Synonyms

beg, entreat, implore, plead, request.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

Word	Description / Examples
beseech	Used when asking urgently and fervently for something, often in a dramatic or heartfelt manner. It has an old-fashioned or literary tone. He knelt down to beseech the king for mercy She could only beseech him to stay a little longer
implore	Emphasizes desperate or urgent pleading, often with emotional intensity. It is stronger than 'beg' and has a dramatic tone. She implored him to reconsider his decision The refugees implored the border guards for help
entreat	Used in more formal or literary contexts when making an earnest or serious request. It suggests a sincere appeal. She would often entreat her children to behave properly He entreated the judge to show leniency
beg	Commonly used in everyday language when asking for something desperately. It can also have a negative connotation, implying weakness or lack of dignity. He had to beg for money on the streets She begged him not to leave her alone
plead	Used when making an emotional appeal, often in a legal or serious context. It implies a deep sense of need or urgency. He pleaded with the jury to spare his client She pleaded for her life during the attack
request	Used in formal or polite situations when asking for something in a straightforward manner. It is neutral and lacks the urgency or emotion of the other words. She kindly requested more information about the program The manager requested the employees to submit their reports

Examples of usage

She beseeched the heavens for guidance.
He beseeched the council for assistance.

Translations

To see the translation, please select a language from the options available.

Interesting Facts

Literature

Shakespeare used the term in his plays to express deep emotions, showing that asking for help was often tied to desperation.
In the Bible, many figures beseeched God for mercy or guidance, highlighting the term's spiritual weight.
The word captures a sense of urgency and vulnerability commonly found in poetic expressions of love or despair.

Psychology

Beseeching can indicate a deep emotional need, often reflecting feelings of helplessness or reliance on others.
In conversations, bespeaking tends to elicit empathetic responses, strengthening social bonds between individuals.
The act of beseeching can heighten the chances of receiving help, as it communicates sincerity and urgency.

Pop Culture

In movies and theater, characters often beseech a higher power or a mentor figure when in dire situations, showcasing the human desire for assistance.
Songs frequently incorporate the theme of beseeching in romantic contexts, expressing yearning and emotional depth.
The term appears in modern literature and film, often used to highlight characters' emotional struggles.

Cultural Significance

Different cultures express beseeching in various ways, often incorporating gestures or rituals to emphasize the request.
In some traditions, beseeching can involve formal displays of respect, such as bowing or offering gifts.
The act of beseeching is seen as a sign of humility in many cultures, contrasting with assertive demands.

Origin of 'beseech'

Main points about word origin

The word comes from Old English 'besīecan,' meaning to seek for or to request.
Beseech is a combination of 'be' (to make) and 'sech' (to seek), emphasizing the act of seeking earnestly.
In Middle English, the term evolved into its current form and was often used in literature to convey pleading.

The word 'beseech' originated from Middle English 'bisechen', from Old English 'beseċan', meaning 'to seek, beseech, request'. The prefix 'be-' intensifies the meaning, conveying a sense of urgency or fervent pleading. Over time, the word has retained its essence of earnestly asking for something, often in a formal or literary context.

See also: seek, seeker, seekers, seeking, sought.

Word Frequency Rank

At position #14,703, this word is part of sophisticated English vocabulary. It's useful for academic or professional contexts where precise language is needed.

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14700 buckling
14701 coverings
14702 reconsidered
14703 beseech
14704 summarizing
14705 pastry
14706 vampire
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