asked for mercy

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "asked for mercy" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used in contexts where someone is pleading for compassion or forgiveness, often in situations of distress or desperation. Example: "As the storm raged on, the sailors asked for mercy from the unforgiving sea."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Encyclopedias

Academia

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

17 human-written examples

The son asked for mercy.

The New York Times

He pleaded guilty to inciting subversion of the state, voiced contrition in a calm, practiced voice and asked for mercy.

The New York Times

Manafort asked for mercy on more personal grounds, asking Jackson to weigh the effect on his wife, too.

The Washington Post

Ali M. Hasanov, a top official in the presidential administration, said President Aliyev had allowed the two to be released early because their parents asked for mercy.

The New York Times

Mr. Longo waived his right to make a final plea for his life to the jury, but his lawyer, Ken Hadley, asked for mercy for him.

The New York Times

When one of the combatants was wounded or thrown, his opponent usually placed a knee on his chest and, unless asked for mercy, drove a dagger through a joint in the armour.

Encyclopedia Britannica

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

43 human-written examples

I ask for mercy for everybody".

The New York Times - Magazine

Likewise, asking for "mercy" felt lowly and serflike.

The New Yorker

"I ask for mercy from God," he said.

The New York Times

I like that I spend my days asking for mercy, not punishment.

Independent

"He said that he did, and that's why he was asking for mercy".

The New York Times

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "asked for mercy", consider the context and choose a verb that accurately reflects the intensity of the request, such as "begged", "pleaded", or "implored", to add nuance.

Common error

Avoid using "asked for mercy" in highly formal or legal documents. Opt for more precise terms like "sought clemency" or "petitioned for leniency" to maintain a professional tone.

Linguistic Context

"Asked for mercy" functions as a verb phrase, typically acting as the predicate of a sentence. It describes an action of requesting compassion or leniency. Ludwig AI examples show it used in contexts ranging from legal proceedings to personal pleas.

Expression frequency: Common

Frequent in

News & Media

75%

Academia

12%

Encyclopedias

6%

Less common in

Wiki

3%

Science

2%

Formal & Business

2%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The phrase "asked for mercy" is a commonly used verb phrase that describes a request for compassion or leniency. Ludwig AI analysis confirms that the phrase is grammatically correct and appears frequently in news articles, academic texts, and general discourse. While versatile, choosing a more precise verb like "pleaded" or "implored" can enhance the impact of the sentence. When writing for legal contexts, consider formal alternatives such as "sought clemency". Understanding these nuances can help you leverage the full power of language.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

made a plea for mercy

A general expression for requesting compassion or leniency, similar to the original phrase.

pleaded for forgiveness

Implies a more emotional and urgent request for absolution.

appealed for compassion

Highlights the emotional aspect of seeking understanding and empathy.

begged for leniency

Conveys a sense of desperation and supplication for reduced punishment.

implored for grace

Emphasizes a humble and earnest request for divine or undeserved favor.

entreat for kindness

Asks for a gentle and benevolent treatment, often in a vulnerable situation.

sought clemency

A formal and legal term for requesting a pardon or reduced sentence.

cried out for pity

Expresses intense suffering and a plea for sympathetic consideration.

requested absolution

Focuses on seeking forgiveness, particularly in a religious or moral context.

petitioned for exemption

A formal request for release from a rule or obligation.

FAQs

How can I use "asked for mercy" in a sentence?

You can use "asked for mercy" when describing a situation where someone is seeking compassion or forgiveness, such as, "The defendant "asked for mercy" from the judge."

What are some alternatives to "asked for mercy"?

Alternatives include "pleaded for forgiveness", "begged for leniency", or "sought clemency", depending on the level of formality and intensity you want to convey.

Is it grammatically correct to say "asked for mercy"?

Yes, "asked for mercy" is grammatically correct and commonly used in English. Ludwig AI confirms its validity based on numerous real-world examples.

What's the difference between "asked for mercy" and "begged for mercy"?

"Begged for mercy" implies a greater sense of desperation and humility compared to "asked for mercy". Begging suggests a more intense and emotional plea.