entreat - Master This Word
Master this word with our 5-step learning method – Learn English in English
entreat Word Meanings
- to ask someone earnestly or anxiously
- to beg or implore
- to request something in a serious manner
entreat Example Sentences
Example sentences are the start of understanding. Don't rush to memorize. First feel how the word works in a sentence.
entreat Phonetic & Pronunciation
UK
/ɪnˈtriːt/
US
/ɪnˈtriːt/
entreat Word Etymology
entreat = en- (to make) + treat (to deal with) → Latin 'interrogare' (to ask) → Old French 'entretier' → English. Imagine a pleading person, hands clasped together, earnestly asking for help.
Note 1: These definitions and etymologies are not standard dictionary definitions, but extended explanations provided to help with memorization and understanding of the actual application of words. Through this background information, we strive to make words more vivid and easier to understand, and help you remember their meanings in real life.
Note 2: LexiTalk designs the learning flow around the linguistics principle of “Comprehensible Input.” When learners encounter material that is slightly above their level but still understandable from context, the brain naturally absorbs the language. That’s why we keep every word inside authentic contexts, using examples and associations to help you understand it and use it flexibly.
Read the FAQ explanation of Comprehensible InputReal Context
Entreat means to ask someone earnestly or anxiously and to beg or implore in a serious, heartfelt way. It signals vulnerability and urgency, often in formal or literary contexts, rather than casual conversation. You might entreat a friend for help, a judge for leniency, or a colleague to reconsider a proposal; the object of the entreat can be a person or a situation. The sense of solemn earnestness makes it more potent than simply asking, yet it remains less aggressive than pleading in everyday speech. In modern writing, entreat is common in sermons, historical narratives, or high-register dialogue where a character appeals with sincerity and humility.
Usage Reminders
- Entreat is more formal than ask.
- Use entreat when you want to show earnestness or urgency.
- It is often followed by a to-infinitive or a direct object.
- Do not confuse entreat with plead; entreat is generally more restrained.
- Reserve entreat for literary or high-register contexts.
Common Misconceptions
- It is interchangeable with 'ask' in all contexts; it is not.
- It is used in casual speech to sound earnest; this is usually inappropriate.
- It only appears in religious texts; it can appear in literature as well.
- It always conveys desperation; often it conveys formal earnestness.
- It can replace 'beg' in all situations; 'beg' has stronger urgency.
Thinking Differences
Entreat is a formal, literary verb. English speakers reserve it for scenes of high emotion or historical tone; in modern speech it often sounds archaic. Learners should notice the tone and substitute with 'ask' or 'beg' depending on context and relationship.
Learning Tips
- Study entreat in literary excerpts to feel its tone.
- Compare with 'ask', 'beg', and 'implore' to sense nuance.
- Practice subject-verb-object patterns: entreat someone to do something.
- Note formality: reserve for formal writing or dialogue.
- Record your own sentences to check tone and naturalness.
- Look for historical or religious texts for authentic usage.
5-Step Learning Method - Learn English in English
Step 2: Usage
In which sentence is 'entreat' used correctly?
A.She ate the entreat.
B.The dog ran fast.
C.They slept quietly.
D.He begged for forgiveness.
Step 3: Similar Words
Which word is a synonym of 'entreat'?
A.Accept
B.Demand
C.Refuse
D.Ignore
Step 4: Opposite Words
What is the opposite of 'entreat'?
A.Implore
B.Command
C.Discourage
D.Coax
Step 5: Mastery
In what real-life situation would someone 'entreat'?
A.Eating a meal
B.Driving a car
C.Taking a nap
D.Asking for a favor
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