pleading

USAGE SUMMARY

The word "pleading" is correct and can be used in written English.
It can be used to refer to an urgent, emotional request or appeal. For example, "The little girl was pleading with her parents to let her stay up late on weekends."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

Cameron's message was echoed by the Daily Telegraph which emailed its readers pleading with them to back the Conservatives.

The Guardian

The duo were forced to suspend their set three times, pleading with the crowd to simmer down.

The Guardian - Music

They signalled they would abstain on their own policy, before latterly resolving to back it – and pleading with their MPs to follow.

The Guardian - Opinion

With a view to ironing out such technical quibbles, a group of MPs led by Greg Mulholland is pleading for more time.

The Guardian - Opinion

For a triumvirate that only a month ago was pleading with Scotland not to break up this "family of nations", relegating all non-English parties to the children's table is unfortunate in the extreme.

The Guardian - Opinion

Routh is pleading not guilty by reason of insanity.

The Guardian

But now here I am, hat in hand, pleading forgiveness.

The Guardian - Lifestyle

But news of the sale created an uproar among the public and tennis players alike – with John McEnroe even calling Borg and pleading with him to think again.

The Guardian

We've got a farcical situation where we've got MPs pleading for immunity from cuts for their electorates".

The Guardian

When the boredom becomes too much for her, she rests her schnozzle in the crook of my arm and gazes up at me, big eyes pleading.

The Guardian - Lifestyle

Juncker and his entourage have been telephoning the British mission to the EU in Brussels pleading for an audience.

The Guardian

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "pleading", consider the emotional tone you want to convey. It's a strong word that implies urgency and a degree of desperation, so ensure it aligns with the context of your writing.

Common error

Avoid using "pleading" in situations where a simple request is sufficient. Using it excessively can make your writing sound overly dramatic or insincere. Instead, opt for more neutral terms like "requesting" or "asking" when the situation doesn't warrant a strong emotional appeal.

Linguistic Context

The primary grammatical function of "pleading" is as a verb, specifically the present participle of the verb "plead". It often functions as part of a continuous verb tense (e.g., "He is pleading") or as a gerund (e.g., "Pleading for mercy"). Ludwig AI confirms its correct use, as illustrated by the examples.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

98%

Formal & Business

1%

Science

1%

Less common in

Encyclopedias

0%

Wiki

0%

Academia

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "pleading" functions primarily as a verb, expressing an urgent and emotional request. As Ludwig AI indicates, it is grammatically correct and frequently used, particularly in News & Media contexts. While alternatives like "begging" or "appealing" exist, the choice depends on the specific shade of meaning you wish to convey. When using "pleading", consider the emotional tone and avoid overuse in neutral situations. Ludwig's examples from sources like The Guardian and The Economist showcase its use in real-world contexts.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

begging

Similar to pleading, but often implies a greater level of desperation or submission.

appealing

A more formal alternative, suggesting a reasoned or persuasive request.

entreating

Implies a sincere and heartfelt request, often used in formal contexts.

imploring

Suggests an urgent and emotional plea, often used in dire situations.

beseeching

A formal term for earnestly or humbly asking someone for something.

requesting earnestly

A more descriptive phrase emphasizing the sincerity of the request.

supplicating

Implies a humble and reverent request, often directed towards a higher power or authority.

petitioning

A more formal term for making a request to an authority or organization.

arguing

In a legal context, it refers to presenting reasons for or against something.

defending

Presenting a case or argument in support of someone or something.

FAQs

How can I use "pleading" in a sentence?

You can use "pleading" to describe someone making an urgent or emotional request. For example, "She was "pleading for help" when she saw the accident."

What are some alternatives to the word "pleading"?

Alternatives to "pleading" include "begging", "appealing", and "imploring", each carrying slightly different nuances of urgency and emotion.

What is the difference between "pleading" and "begging"?

"Pleading" suggests an earnest request, while "begging" often implies a greater level of desperation and submission. The choice depends on the intensity of the request and the relationship between the individuals involved.

In what contexts is it appropriate to use the word "pleading"?

The word "pleading" is appropriate in contexts where someone is making an urgent, emotional, or desperate request. It is often used in situations involving legal matters, personal crises, or when seeking assistance or forgiveness. It is suitable for News & Media or when a stronger emotional term is needed.