What context can I use each word in?
Learn when and how to use these words with these examples!
plea
Example
The lawyer made a plea for his client's innocence. [plea: noun]
Example
She made a heartfelt plea for donations to the charity. [plea: noun]
supplication
Example
The pilgrims made supplications at the holy site. [supplications: noun]
Example
He wrote a letter of supplication to the king, asking for clemency. [supplication: noun]
Good things to know
Which word is more common?
Plea is more commonly used in everyday language than supplication. Plea is versatile and covers a wide range of contexts, while supplication is less common and has a more specific usage.
What’s the difference in the tone of formality between plea and supplication?
Supplication is generally considered more formal than plea. It is often used in religious or official contexts where a high level of respect and humility is required. Plea, on the other hand, can be used in both formal and informal contexts depending on the situation.