plead

To ask for something very strongly, often because you are upset or desperate.

• He pleaded for help.
• She pleaded with her parents to let her go.
• Please don't leave, he pleaded.

How to use it: plead for something (The prisoners pleaded for mercy.); plead with someone to do something (She pleaded with him to stay.)

Similar words: beg, implore, beseech

Common phrases: plead for mercy, plead with someone, plead for help

To tell a court formally whether you accept or deny a criminal charge.

• He pleaded guilty.
• She will plead not guilty to the charge.
• How did the defendant plead?

How to use it: plead guilty to something (He pleaded guilty to theft.); plead not guilty to something (She pleaded not guilty to all charges.)

Common phrases: plead guilty, plead not guilty, plead to something

To present arguments supporting a person, request, or legal case.

• The lawyer pleaded his case.
• She pleaded the children's cause before the council.
• He has pleaded many difficult cases in this court.

How to use it: plead someone's case (The lawyer pleaded her client's case before the judge.); plead for someone/something (She pleaded for the workers before the committee.)

Similar words: argue, advocate

Common phrases: plead a case, plead someone's cause, plead for someone

To give a particular reason as an excuse for what you did or cannot do.

• She pleaded ignorance of the rules.
• He pleaded illness and stayed home.
• You cannot plead poverty after buying that expensive car.

How to use it: plead something as an excuse (He pleaded illness as an excuse for his absence.)

Similar words: cite, claim

Common phrases: plead ignorance, plead illness, plead poverty