What does the phrasal verb “plead out” mean?

What are the definitions of “plead out”?

Learn how to use these expressions through these examples

• 1. Plead guilty to get a reduced sentence or fine.

  The CEO PLEADED OUT and blamed the CFO for the fraud.

What’s the most common meaning of the phrasal verb “plead out”?

The most common meaning of the phrasal verb plead out is to plead guilty in a court case in order to receive a reduced sentence or fine. This often happens when a defendant accepts a plea bargain offered by the prosecution.

What are the different verb forms of “plead out”?

Root Verb	plead out
Third Person Singular Present	pleads out
Present Participle	pleading out
Simple Past	pleaded out
Past Participle	pleaded out

Example

The defendant decided to plead out to avoid a lengthy trial.

Example

She pleads out to get a lighter sentence.

Example

He is pleading out to avoid going to jail.

Example

Last week, the suspect pleaded out and received a reduced sentence.

Example

The accused has pleaded out in exchange for a lesser charge.

What kind of phrasal verb is “plead out”?

📝

Notes from a Native English Speaker

What is a transitive and intransitive verb?
- A transitive verb always has an object after it. (Example: Sam bought a car.)
- An intransitive verb never has an object.(Example: She laughed loudly.)

Intransitive verb

“plead out” is an intransitive phrasal verb because it doesn't require an object to complete its meaning. It forms a complete sentence without an object.

Example

He pleaded out to avoid a long trial.

Example

She pleaded out and received a lighter sentence.

📝

Notes from a Native English Speaker

What is a separable and inseparable phrasal verb?
- A “separable phrasal verb” can be separated with an object between the verb and particle.
- An “inseparable phrasal verb” cannot be separated by an object.

Inseparable

“plead out” is an inseparable phrasal verb. This means that you can’t place an object between the verb and the particle, otherwise, it changes the meaning of the phrasal verb.

Example

He pleaded out to avoid a long trial.

Example

She pleaded out and received a lighter sentence.

What are common phrases and expressions that include the phrasal verb “plead out”?

Plea bargain

A negotiation between the defendant and the prosecutor, in which the defendant agrees to plead guilty to a lesser charge in exchange for a more lenient sentence or the dismissal of related charges.

Example

The lawyer advised his client to accept the plea bargain and plead out to a lesser charge.

Plead guilty

To admit in a court of law that one has committed the crime they are accused of.

Example

He decided to plead guilty and plead out to receive a reduced sentence.

Plead not guilty

To deny in a court of law that one has committed the crime they are accused of.

Example

She chose to plead not guilty and fight the charges instead of pleading out.

Good things to know

Does “plead out” have an informal or formal tone?

Plead out is a legal term and is used in both formal and informal contexts. It is commonly used in legal settings, such as courtrooms and legal discussions, as well as in everyday conversations when discussing legal matters.

What are synonyms of antonyms to the phrasal verb “plead out”?

Synonyms

• admit guilt
• accept a plea bargain
• plead guilty

Antonyms

• plead not guilty
• deny guilt
• fight the charges