26984 words

plead

7 definitions • 11 examples
1
to make an urgent, emotional statement or request for something:

Examples:

He was on his knees, pleading for mercy/forgiveness.
She appeared on television to plead with the kidnappers.
[ + speech ] "Give us more time," they pleaded.
2
to make a statement of what you believe to be true, especially in support of something or someone or when someone has been accused in a law court:

Examples:

They paid a high-powered attorney to plead their case (= argue for them in court).
The judge ruled her unfit to plead (= to answer a legal charge) on the grounds of insanity.
3
to say something as an excuse or explanation:

Examples:

She left early, pleading pressure of work.
4
to say that you do not know about something:

Examples:

He pleaded ignorance when they found the package in his suitcase.
5
to make an urgent, emotional statement or request for something:

Examples:

She appeared on television to plead for help in finding her child.
6
to give an official answer to an accusation in a law court:

Examples:

to plead guilty/not guilty
7
to say in a court of law if you are guilty or not guilty of something that you have been accused of:

Examples:

plead guilty/not guilty to sth They pleaded guilty to price-fixing and paid a $45 million fine.

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