he pleaded that

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "he pleaded that" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used when someone is making a strong emotional appeal or request, often in a legal or formal context. Example: "In his defense, he pleaded that the evidence was insufficient to convict him."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Academia

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

12 human-written examples

In addition, he pleaded that, "I spend two-thirds of my time on unpaid work," such as bringing peace to the Middle East.

The Guardian - Opinion

He pleaded that the attack be launched within 24 hours.

The New York Times

Bautista said he pleaded that he would not resell any more tickets and was reinstated.

The New York Times - Sports

Her lawyers say she allowed Mr. Yettaw to spend two nights at her house because he pleaded that he was hungry and tired after his swim.

The New York Times

He pleaded that uncaring Conservatism would destroy what was left of the Scottish party and managed to wheedle money out of chancellors.

The Guardian

"As I remember it, I don't really remember, he offered me $5,000 a month". Bani-Sadr says he pleaded that he was busy with his own work, but that Cassin responded that the consulting would take only half an hour from time to time.

The Washington Post

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

48 human-written examples

RAPPARD UPHOLDS LEAGUE In Final Politics Institute Session He Pleads That This Nation Join.

The New York Times

Beneath the public image of a naked, bongo-playing, pot-smoking, heart-breaking beach-bum, he's very different, he pleads: "That's not me.

Independent

He also pleaded that, at the time fixed for the delivery of the wheat, appellant had suspended business, was unable to comply with its contract, and had no money to pay for the wheat.

Harvard University

"He hasn't pleaded that and it is not in fact happening," he said.

The New York Times

In vain will he plead that a cut is not a cut when it is a freeze or merely a shift in priorities.

The Guardian - Opinion

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "he pleaded that" when you want to convey a sense of urgency or emotional appeal in someone's request or argument. Reserve it for situations where the person is not simply asking, but making a strong, heartfelt case.

Common error

Avoid using "he pleaded that" in every situation where someone makes a request. Overusing emotional verbs can weaken your writing and make characters seem overly dramatic. Use more neutral verbs like "asked" or "requested" when the context doesn't require strong emotion.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "he pleaded that" typically functions as a verb phrase introducing a subordinate clause that expresses a request, argument, or excuse. It indicates the subject made an earnest appeal. Ludwig AI confirms this usage by presenting numerous examples from reliable sources.

Expression frequency: Common

Frequent in

News & Media

70%

Academia

20%

Formal & Business

5%

Less common in

Science

5%

Wiki

0%

Encyclopedias

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, the phrase "he pleaded that" is a common and grammatically correct way to express that someone made a strong, emotional request or argument. It's most frequently found in news and media contexts, with some usage in academic writing. While Ludwig AI confirms that it is acceptable, consider the emotional tone it conveys and use it judiciously to avoid weakening your writing or making characters seem overly dramatic.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

he implored that

Emphasizes the desperate or earnest nature of the request.

he begged that

Highlights the submissive or humble nature of the request.

he requested that

Replaces "pleaded" with a more neutral term, indicating a formal request rather than an emotional appeal.

he appealed that

Indicates a formal request made to a higher authority or decision-maker.

he asked that

Simplifies the phrase using a common verb, suitable for informal contexts.

he entreated that

Uses a formal and less common verb to express a serious request.

he urged that

Suggests a strong recommendation or encouragement, rather than a direct plea.

he argued that

Shifts the focus to a logical or persuasive point being made.

he asserted that

Highlights the confident and forceful declaration of a statement.

he maintained that

Emphasizes the consistency and persistence of the statement.

FAQs

When is it appropriate to use "he pleaded that"?

Use "he pleaded that" when you want to emphasize the emotional intensity or urgency of a request. It suggests that the person is making a strong, heartfelt appeal.

What are some alternatives to "he pleaded that"?

You can use alternatives like "he requested that", "he asked that", or "he urged that" depending on the context and the level of formality you want to convey.

Is "he pleaded that" formal or informal?

"He pleaded that" falls somewhere in the middle. While it's not strictly informal, it carries a stronger emotional tone than more neutral alternatives, so consider the context when choosing it.

How does "he pleaded that" differ from "he argued that"?

"He pleaded that" emphasizes an emotional appeal or request, while "he argued that" focuses on presenting a logical case or providing evidence to support a claim.