What context can I use each word in?
Learn when and how to use these words with these examples!
petition
Example
The citizens submitted a petition to the mayor asking for better public transportation. [petition: noun]
Example
We need to petition the government to take action on climate change. [petition: verb]
plea
Example
The victim's family made a plea for justice at the trial. [plea: noun]
Example
He pleaded guilty to the charges against him. [pleaded: past tense verb]
Good things to know
Which word is more common?
Petition is more commonly used than plea in formal contexts, such as legal or political settings. Plea is more commonly used in informal contexts, such as personal appeals or emotional requests.
What’s the difference in the tone of formality between petition and plea?
Petition is generally more formal than plea, which can be used in both formal and informal contexts. However, both words can be used in various levels of formality depending on the context and audience.
