beg mercy

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "beg mercy" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used in contexts where someone is pleading for forgiveness or compassion, often in a dramatic or serious manner. Example: "As the storm raged on, the sailor could only beg mercy from the unforgiving sea."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Wiki

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

1 human-written examples

Raymond was emboldened to invade Cilicia, but he was defeated and forced to go to Constantinople to beg mercy from the new Emperor.

Wikipedia

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

58 human-written examples

A man is on his knees, begging mercy from the finely clothed officers on their horses, who seem amused by it all.

The Guardian - Arts

It will move to the National Gallery in Washington and the Metropolitan Museum of Art.. It's a monumental show, despite the defensive subtitle, "Image of an Epoch," which begs mercy for the pictures as historical artifacts.

The New Yorker

He sought death by the axe and begged mercy from the King for his young family.

Wikipedia

Or, perhaps, collapse to the ground and beg for mercy.

The New York Times - Magazine

Is the boy the type who will beg for mercy when things turn nasty?

The New Yorker

Maybe somebody else can scream and cry and beg for mercy, for a change.

The New Yorker

I was a nobody and not inclined to beg for mercy or to show it.

The New Yorker

At still others, the footage can last far longer as captives beg for mercy.

The New York Times

I refuse to demean myself and beg for mercy for a crime I did not commit".

The New York Times

They have forced her to name names, sign confessions, beg for mercy.

The New York Times - Books

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "beg mercy" when you want to convey a sense of desperation or humility in asking for forgiveness or leniency.

Common error

Avoid using "beg mercy" sarcastically or when you believe you are entitled to leniency. This phrase is most effective when genuinely expressing remorse or acknowledging one's vulnerability.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "beg mercy" functions as a verb phrase, typically used to describe the action of pleading for compassion or forgiveness from someone in a position of power or authority. As noted by Ludwig, this phrase conveys a strong sense of supplication.

Expression frequency: Uncommon

Frequent in

News & Media

65%

Wiki

25%

Formal & Business

5%

Less common in

Science

1%

Encyclopedias

1%

Reference

3%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, the phrase "beg mercy" is a grammatically correct and usable expression denoting a plea for compassion or forgiveness. Ludwig confirms its validity in written English. While not extremely common, its usage appears across various contexts, particularly in news, media and wiki sources. The phrase evokes a sense of desperation and humility. When using "beg mercy", it's best to ensure the context warrants such a strong expression of remorse and vulnerability, as misusing it can undermine its intended effect.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

Plead for forgiveness

Emphasizes the act of pleading, suggesting a more emotional appeal.

Implore clemency

Highlights the act of earnestly requesting merciful treatment, often from a position of power.

Appeal for leniency

Highlights the formal act of making a request for a reduced punishment.

Beseech leniency

A more formal and archaic way of asking for mercy, implying a deep sense of supplication.

Entreat compassion

A formal way of requesting sympathetic understanding and leniency.

Cry for grace

Emphasizes the desperation and emotional intensity of the plea.

Solicit mercy

A more detached and formal way to request for mercy or leniency.

Seek absolution

Focuses on seeking forgiveness for sins or wrongdoing, implying a spiritual dimension.

Beg for grace

Focuses on seeking unmerited favor or kindness, especially from a divine power.

Ask for quarter

A term often used in warfare, meaning to request that one's life be spared.

FAQs

How can I use "beg mercy" in a sentence?

You can use "beg mercy" to describe someone pleading for forgiveness or leniency. For example, "The defeated knight had to beg mercy from the victorious king."

What's a more formal alternative to "beg mercy"?

A more formal alternative would be to "beseech leniency" or "implore clemency". These options suggest a deeper level of supplication.

Is it grammatically correct to say "begging mercy"?

Yes, "begging mercy" is grammatically correct. It is the present participle form, often used in continuous tenses or as a gerund. For example, "He was found "begging mercy" at the foot of the throne."

When is it appropriate to use "beg mercy" instead of simply apologizing?

Use "beg mercy" when the situation calls for a more dramatic or desperate appeal for forgiveness. It suggests a deeper sense of remorse than a simple apology.