asking for mercy

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "asking for mercy" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used in contexts where someone is pleading for forgiveness or compassion, often in situations of distress or desperation. Example: "In the face of overwhelming odds, he found himself asking for mercy from his captors."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Wiki

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

19 human-written examples

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

The New Yorker

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

He will field 20 questions about The Wire before asking for mercy.

The Guardian - Travel

"You're not going to get customers walking into stores by asking for mercy and gratitude.

The New York Times - Magazine

That's about as logical (and endearing) as killing your parents and asking for mercy because you're an orphan.

The New York Times

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

38 human-written examples

The son asked for mercy.

The New York Times

I ask for mercy for everybody".

The New York Times - Magazine

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

The New York Times

"And yet, he was still able to find it in his heart to ask for mercy for McVeigh.

The New York Times - Magazine

Cut them, cut them — cut them so much that they kneel before you and ask for mercy".

The New York Times

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "asking for mercy", consider the context and the relationship between the parties involved. The phrase is most effective when there is a clear power dynamic or a sense of vulnerability.

Common error

Avoid using "asking for mercy" in overly casual or trivial situations. The phrase carries a certain weight and solemnity, and its overuse can diminish its impact.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "asking for mercy" functions primarily as a verbal phrase or idiomatic expression. Ludwig AI confirms this phrase is typically employed to describe the act of seeking compassion, forgiveness, or leniency from someone in a position of power or authority. For example, in legal contexts, a defendant might "ask for mercy" from a judge.

Expression frequency: Common

Frequent in

News & Media

75%

Wiki

12%

Science

8%

Less common in

Formal & Business

2%

Encyclopedias

2%

Social Media

1%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "asking for mercy" is a versatile phrase used to express a request for compassion or leniency, often in situations of vulnerability or wrongdoing. Ludwig AI confirms that while grammatically correct, its appropriateness depends heavily on context. It is most commonly found in news and media reporting, where it maintains a neutral register, but may also appear in more formal or solemn settings. When using this phrase, consider the power dynamics and the desired impact. Alternatives such as "pleading for leniency" or "seeking compassion" may be more suitable depending on the specific nuance you wish to convey.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

pleading for leniency

Replaces "mercy" with "leniency", focusing on the act of seeking a more forgiving judgment.

begging for forgiveness

Emphasizes the aspect of seeking absolution for a wrongdoing.

appealing for clemency

Uses a more formal term, "clemency", suggesting a legal or official context.

seeking compassion

Focuses on the desire for empathetic understanding and leniency.

requesting leniency

A direct and polite way of asking for a more lenient treatment.

entreating for compassion

Implies a deep and earnest request for empathetic understanding.

soliciting grace

Uses "grace", which suggests undeserved favor or kindness.

beseeching for pity

Highlights the act of urgently and fervently asking for pity.

imploring for understanding

Stresses the need for comprehension and empathy in the situation.

crying out for quarter

Evokes a sense of desperation, often in a conflict situation, seeking to be spared.

FAQs

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

You can use "asking for mercy" in sentences like: "The defendant was "asking for mercy" from the judge." or "After the accident, he was "asking for mercy" from the other driver".

What's the difference between "asking for mercy" and "pleading for mercy"?

"Pleading for mercy" implies a greater sense of urgency and desperation compared to simply ""asking for mercy"". Pleading suggests a more emotional and fervent appeal.

What can I say instead of "asking for mercy"?

You can use alternatives like "begging for forgiveness", "appealing for clemency", or "seeking compassion" depending on the context.

When is it appropriate to use the phrase "asking for mercy"?

It's appropriate to use ""asking for mercy"" in situations where someone is seeking forgiveness, leniency, or compassion, especially when they are in a vulnerable position or facing severe consequences.