Plead Meaning: Definition, Examples, and Translations
๐
plead
[pliหd ]
Definitions
in court
To make an emotional appeal; to beg; to ask earnestly.
Synonyms
Which Synonym Should You Choose?
| Word | Description / Examples |
|---|---|
| plead |
Used in both formal and informal situations. Often in legal settings or when making a serious request. It suggests a strong need but not necessarily desperation.
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| beg |
Informal and often used when someone is in desperate need. It implies a sense of vulnerability or helplessness.
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| implore |
Fits both formal and informal contexts. Generally conveys urgent and sincere emotion, similar to plead but with more emphasis on the urgency.
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| beseech |
More formal and old-fashioned. Often used in literature or dramatic situations. It expresses earnest and deep concern.
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Examples of usage
- He pleaded with the judge for mercy.
- She pleaded guilty to the charges against her.
law
To present a case in a court of law; to defend or accuse.
Synonyms
Which Synonym Should You Choose?
| Word | Description / Examples |
|---|---|
| plead |
Used mostly in legal settings and situations where someone is making an emotional or urgent request.
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| argue |
Typically involves presenting reasons or evidence to support or oppose a point of view, can be used in both formal debates and everyday disagreements.
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| advocate |
Appropriate when discussing support for a particular cause or policy, often in professional or formal settings.
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| defend |
Used when protecting someone or something from attack or criticism, often in legal or competitive situations.
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Examples of usage
- The lawyer pleaded his case convincingly.
- The prosecutor pleaded for a harsher sentence.
law
A formal statement made by a defendant in a criminal case, declaring guilt or innocence.
Synonyms
assertion, declaration, statement.
Which Synonym Should You Choose?
| Word | Description / Examples |
|---|---|
| plead |
Used in legal scenarios or when someone is making an emotional or urgent request.
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| declaration |
Often used in formal contexts when something is being officially announced or proclaimed.
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| statement |
Used in general contexts when providing information or expressing thoughts clearly and directly.
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| assertion |
Typically applies when someone confidently states something as a fact.
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Examples of usage
- The defendant entered a plea of not guilty.
- She changed her plea to guilty at the last minute.
Translations
To see the translation, please select a language from the options available.
Interesting Facts
Law
- In a courtroom, to plead can mean to formally state whether you are guilty or not guilty.
- Different types of pleas exist, such as guilty, not guilty, or no contest, each affecting the course of a trial.
- The concept of pleading has been central in legal proceedings since ancient times, showing its longstanding importance in justice.
Psychology
- Pleading can be viewed as a way to express vulnerability, often invoking empathy from others.
- When people plead, they tap into emotional appeals, which can significantly influence decisions and reactions.
- The effectiveness of pleading often depends on the emotional connection between the person pleading and the listener.
Literature
- Pleading often appears in storytelling, where characters use it to show desperation or deep desire.
- Classic literature frequently explores themes of pleading, emphasizing human emotions and interactions.
- Shakespeareโs plays often depict characters pleading, revealing the dramatic weight of their requests or confessions.
Pop Culture
- Pleading is a common theme in movies and television, illustrating moments of high emotional stakes, like in a courtroom scene.
- Many songs feature themes of pleading, capturing the raw emotion of wanting someone or something back.
- In memes and social media, the image of pleading has become a humorous way to express exaggerated desire or need.
Origin of 'plead'
Main points about word origin
- The word has roots in Old English, โpleidanโ, which meant to โpleadโ or โto place a pleaโ.
- It traces further back to the Latin โplacitareโ, meaning to make a legal or formal request.
- Over centuries, the meaning expanded beyond legal contexts to include heartfelt requests in everyday life.
The word 'plead' originated from the Old French word 'pledier' meaning 'to argue, discuss, plead,' which itself came from the Latin 'placitare' meaning 'to argue, discuss, plead a case.' The sense of 'beg, entreat' developed in Middle English, influenced by the Old French 'plaidier' meaning 'to beg, plead.'