to make an emotional or serious request for something, to state in court that you are guilty or not guilty of a crime, to argue strongly for something you want or believe in

plead with someone, plead guilty, plead one's case

plead ignorance, plead the fifth, plead for time

Formal and Informal Expressions of plead

In different contexts, you can replace 'plead' with suitable alternatives. In a more formal setting, 'implore, beseech, entreat' is apt. In informal speech or writing, 'beg, plead with, plead for' is a commonplace synonym.

plead: Explore its Definition & Usage

plead Definition

1to make an emotional or serious request for something
2to state in court that you are guilty or not guilty of a crime
3to argue strongly for something you want or believe in

Using plead: Examples

Take a moment to familiarize yourself with how "plead" can be used in various situations through the following examples!

Example
She pleaded with him to stay.
Example
He pleaded guilty to the charges against him.
Example
The lawyer pleaded her case before the judge.
Example
I plead with you to reconsider your decision.

plead Synonyms and Antonyms

Synonyms for plead

Antonyms for plead

Idioms Using plead

plead with someone
to make an emotional or serious request to someone
Example
She pleaded with him to help her find a job.
plead guilty
to formally admit that you have committed a crime
Example
He decided to plead guilty to the charges against him.
plead one's case
to present one's argument or defense in court or in a debate
Example
The lawyer pleaded her case before the judge.

Phrases with plead

plead ignorance
to claim that one does not know or understand something
Example
He pleaded ignorance when asked about the missing files.
plead the fifth
to refuse to answer a question, especially in a legal proceeding, on the grounds that you might incriminate yourself
Example
The witness decided to plead the fifth when asked about his involvement in the crime.
plead for time
to ask for more time to do something
Example
The student pleaded for time to finish the assignment.

Origins of plead

from Old French 'plaidier', meaning 'to plead a case'

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Summary: plead in Brief

The verb 'plead' [pliːd] means to make an emotional or serious request, to state in court whether one is guilty or not guilty, or to argue strongly for something. It can be used in phrases like 'plead ignorance' and idioms like 'plead with someone.'