What context can I use each word in?
Learn when and how to use these words with these examples!
beg
Example
Please, I beg you to lend me some money. [beg: verb]
Example
He begged his parents to let him go to the party. [begged: past tense]
plead
Example
She pleaded with her boss to give her another chance. [pleaded: past tense]
Example
The defendant pleaded not guilty to the charges. [pleaded: verb]
Good things to know
Which word is more common?
Beg is more commonly used than plead in everyday language. Beg is versatile and covers a wide range of contexts, while plead is less common and typically used in more specific situations.
What’s the difference in the tone of formality between beg and plead?
While plead is associated with a formal and serious tone, beg is more informal and can be used in both formal and informal contexts.