ENGLISH
REFERENCE

pleaded

v.
B2 Upper Intermediate US //ˈpɫidɪd// UK //plˈiːdɪd// plead·ed

v. to ask for something in a very strong, emotional way because you really need it. It also means to state in a court of law whether you are guilty or not.

v. to make an emotional appeal or earnest request; in a legal context, to enter a formal statement of guilt or innocence. Often followed by 'with' when addressing a person or 'for' when requesting an object or action.


SIMPLE

He pleaded with his boss for one more chance.

CONTEXTUAL

The defendant pleaded not guilty to all charges during the first day of the trial.

COMPLEX

As the floodwaters rose, the stranded villagers pleaded for immediate assistance, their voices barely audible over the roar of the storm.

Synonyms
Usage

The verb can be intransitive or transitive. In legal contexts, it is often followed by an adjective ('pleaded guilty'); in general contexts, it often takes 'with' or 'for'.

Pitfall

He pleaded to her for helpHe pleaded with her for helpWhen asking a person for something earnestly, use 'pleaded with' rather than 'pleaded to'.

© 2026 English Reference