What context can I use each word in?
Learn when and how to use these words with these examples!
beseeching
Example
She looked at him with beseeching eyes, hoping he would understand. [beseeching: adjective]
Example
He fell to his knees, beseeching the judge for leniency. [beseeching: present participle]
pleading
Example
She made a pleading gesture, hoping he would change his mind. [pleading: adjective]
Example
The lawyer delivered a passionate pleading to the jury, urging them to consider his client's innocence. [pleading: noun]
Good things to know
Which word is more common?
Pleading is more commonly used than beseeching in everyday language, especially in legal or formal settings. Beseeching is less common but can be used in personal or informal contexts where a stronger emotional appeal is desired.
What’s the difference in the tone of formality between beseeching and pleading?
While pleading is typically associated with legal or formal contexts, beseeching can be used in a wider range of situations, including personal or informal settings. Both words can convey a sense of urgency or desperation, but pleading is more specific to legal or formal appeals.