What context can I use each word in?
Learn when and how to use these words with these examples!
pray
Example
I pray every night before going to bed. [pray: verb]
Example
Please pray for my grandmother's health. [pray: verb]
Example
I want to pray for your success. [pray: verb]
entreat
Example
I entreated the judge to show mercy on my client. [entreated: past tense]
Example
She entreated her parents to let her go to the concert. [entreated: past tense]
Example
I entreat you to reconsider your decision. [entreat: verb]
Good things to know
Which word is more common?
Pray is more commonly used than entreat in everyday language, especially in religious contexts. Entreat is more formal and archaic, and is less commonly used in modern language.
Whatโs the difference in the tone of formality between pray and entreat?
Entreat is more formal and archaic than pray, which is more versatile and can be used in both formal and informal contexts. While pray is often associated with religious or spiritual contexts, it can also be used in a more casual sense to mean making a request or expressing gratitude.