entreaty - Master This Word
Master this word with our 5-step learning method – Learn English in English
entreaty Word Meanings
- a sincere request or appeal
- an urgent plea for help or mercy
- a serious and respectful entreaty for something
entreaty Example Sentences
Example sentences are the start of understanding. Don't rush to memorize. First feel how the word works in a sentence.
entreaty Phonetic & Pronunciation
UK
/ɪnˈtriː.ti/
US
/ɪnˈtriː.ti/
entreaty Word Etymology
Root decomposition: 'en-' (to cause) + 'treaty' (to negotiate). Historical origin: Latin 'entreatare' → Old French 'entretier' → Middle English 'entreaty'. Memory image: Imagine a person on their knees, making a heartfelt appeal, emphasizing the sincerity and urgency of their request.
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
An entreaty is a formal, heartfelt request for something you truly need or value. It sits between a simple request and a full-blown petition, often carrying sincere humility and urgency. An entreaty can be directed to a person who holds authority, a mediator, or a group, and it may be spoken or written with careful diction and respectful tone. In modern usage, entreaties appear in literary prose, historical letters, religious contexts, and ceremonial language, where the speaker seeks mercy, aid, or a favorable decision without overt coercion. Common synonyms include plea, supplication, and appeal; remember that entreaty emphasizes earnest emotion more than casual asking.
Usage Reminders
- Use entreaty for formal appeals and serious requests
- Avoid casual, everyday asking terms like please for entreaty contexts
- Pair with respectful tone and clear purpose
- Do not overuse; reserve for appropriate readers or listeners
- Prefer nouns like plea or petition in less formal settings
- Check register: entreaty sounds literary or ceremonial
Common Misconceptions
- Entreaty is just a fancy synonym for 'request'; it's not
- It's appropriate for casual conversation
- It demands coercion or pressure
- It cannot be used in writing
- It and plea have identical nuance in all contexts
Thinking Differences
Entreaty is a literary, ceremonial kind of ask; English speakers often reserve it for historical or dramatic contexts and may confuse it with a mere 'request' or 'plea' in everyday speech.
Learning Tips
- Practice using entreaty in formal writing; replace casual requests
- Learn common collocations: entreaty for mercy, entreaty for aid
- Distinguish entreaty from plea and petition by tone and formality
- Read historical letters to see authentic usage
- Note that entreaty connotes urgency without coercion
- Use polite, restrained language to reflect sincerity
5-Step Learning Method - Learn English in English
Step 1: Meaning
What is the definition of 'entreaty'?
A.A harmful action
B.A type of dance
C.A heartfelt request or plea
D.A kind of food
Step 2: Usage
Choose the sentence that uses 'entreaty' correctly.
A.He made an entreaty for a bigger slice of cake.
B.His entreaty to be considered for the job was ignored.
C.The army received an entreaty to surrender from the enemy.
D.Her entreaty was how she responded to the lecture.
Step 3: Similar Words
Which word is most similar to 'entreaty'?
A.Plea
B.Demand
C.Invitation
D.Statement
Step 4: Opposite Words
What is the opposite of 'entreaty'?
A.Request
B.Command
C.Proposal
D.Suggestion
Step 5: Mastery
Can you give an example of a real-life scenario of making an entreaty?
A.After his entreaty, the committee agreed to reconsider his application.
B.The mayor received a request from the community for new parks.
C.She suggested a meeting to discuss the project further.
D.The athlete asked for a raise in his salary.
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