begged for something

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "begged for something" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used when expressing a strong desire or request for something, often implying urgency or desperation. Example: "She begged for a second chance after her mistake, hoping he would reconsider his decision."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

6 human-written examples

"I begged for something and no one helped me.

The Guardian

Roy Kincannon, bloated and lonely, begged for something slimming.

The New Yorker

My grandfather begged for something more, but we never found a reply.

The New York Times - Arts

When Herkimer realized that color television begged for something quaking and colorful, he designed crepe-papered pompoms on sticks.

The New York Times - Sports

Karen De Marsche, Mr. De Marsche's wife, said she was sitting in a restaurant here with a friend one recent afternoon when a man rushed in, agitated, and begged for something from the manager, who disappeared into the kitchen.

The New York Times - Arts

I begged for something, for relief, for a sign, for whatever.

Vice

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

54 human-written examples

She is now begging for something worn by General MacArthur, and we hope she gets it.

The New Yorker

Who ever listens to a child begging for something from the toilet?

The New Yorker

This area is begging for something, and you've got this huge gift in your lap begging to be opened".

The New York Times

Even Father Luc turns away from her. "Please, Gertrude," I say, begging for something I can't express.

The New Yorker

"Halloween is a liberal holiday because we're teaching our children to beg for something for free".

The New Yorker

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "begged for something", ensure the context clearly conveys the desperation or strong need behind the request. This phrase is most effective when emphasizing the emotional weight of the situation.

Common error

Avoid using "begged for something" in casual contexts where a simple request would suffice. Overusing this phrase can diminish its impact and make your writing sound melodramatic.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "begged for something" primarily functions as a verb phrase, indicating a strong and desperate request. It conveys a sense of urgency and need, as illustrated by Ludwig's examples of people who "begged for help" or "begged for medicine".

Expression frequency: Uncommon

Frequent in

News & Media

60%

Science

20%

Wiki

10%

Less common in

Formal & Business

5%

Encyclopedias

2%

Reference

3%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "begged for something" is a verb phrase used to convey a strong and desperate request. It is grammatically correct and, according to Ludwig, suitable for emphasizing urgency or need. While predominantly found in news and media contexts, its usage extends to scientific and informal settings. Alternatives like "pleaded for something" or "implored for something" can be used depending on the desired nuance. When employing this phrase, writers should ensure that the context warrants the intensity it conveys to avoid sounding melodramatic.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

pleaded for something

Emphasizes a more emotional and earnest appeal than a simple request.

implored for something

Suggests a more formal and urgent request, often in dire circumstances.

asked urgently for something

Highlights the time-sensitive nature of the request.

entreated for something

Implies a humble and sincere request, often from a position of disadvantage.

earnestly requested something

Focuses on the sincerity and seriousness of the request.

beseeched for something

Indicates a desperate and fervent plea.

cried out for something

Highlights the distress and urgency behind the request.

petitioned for something

Suggests a formal and organized request, often directed to an authority.

sued for something

Implies that there is something that is their legal entitlement

pressed for something

Highlights the persistent, insistent aspect of the request.

FAQs

How can I use "begged for something" in a sentence?

You can use "begged for something" to show someone's desperation when they really need something, such as, "She "begged for help" after the accident".

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

"Asked for something" is a neutral request, while "begged for something" implies a desperate or urgent plea. Begging conveys a stronger sense of need and emotional intensity.

What can I say instead of "begged for something"?

Alternatives include "pleaded for something", "implored for something", or "earnestly requested something", depending on the specific context and desired level of formality.

When is it appropriate to use "begged for something" in writing?

Use "begged for something" when you want to emphasize the intensity and desperation behind a request. It's suitable for situations where someone is in dire need or facing significant consequences.