plea - Master This Word
Master this word with our 5-step learning method – Learn English in English
plea Word Meanings
- a request made in an urgent and emotional manner
- a formal statement by a defendant in response to a charge
- an appeal or supplication to someone for help or mercy
plea Example Sentences
Example sentences are the start of understanding. Don't rush to memorize. First feel how the word works in a sentence.
plea Phonetic & Pronunciation
UK
/pliː/
US
/pliː/
plea Word Etymology
Root: plea = plead + -a (noun). Origin: Latin 'placitum' → Old French 'plea' → English 'plea'. Memory: Imagine someone on their knees, pleading passionately for help in a court, hands clasped, eyes imploring.
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 InputEnglish Brain Route
I lean forward, move my chair closer to the table, and set my shoulders steady. I take a breath and push out a careful plea, the words barely louder than a whisper. The room tightens around the moment, and my voice carries just enough urgency to feel real. I keep my gaze, adjust my stance, and let the moment decide what happens next.
Real Context
A plea is a strong, urgent request, often emotional, asking someone to help or grant mercy. In law, a plea is a defendant's formal answer to a charge, stating guilt or innocence and sometimes offering explanations or requests for leniency. In general use, people make pleas to authorities, friends, or institutions when they are in trouble or desperate for aid. Pleas can be heartfelt, pleading for more time, consideration, or a second chance; they can be met with sympathy, skepticism, or a firm refusal, depending on the situation and the speaker's credibility. Understanding the tone and context helps choose between plea, request, or appeal.
Usage Reminders
- Use plea for urgent emotional requests or formal court statements.
- Common collocations: plead guilty, plead not guilty, plea for mercy.
- In neutral or casual contexts, prefer 'request' or 'appeal'.
- Be careful with spelling: plead (verb) vs plea (noun); pleaded/pled depending on region.
- Tone matters: a plea can sound dramatic; adjust to preserve credibility.
Common Misconceptions
- Plea always means a confession or admission.
- Plea cannot be used in everyday requests.
- Plea and plead are the same word in all contexts.
- A plea is never a polite request.
- In court, pleading guarantees a favorable outcome.
Thinking Differences
English speakers often treat plea as either a formal courtroom statement or an urgent, emotional request; learners should note when to use plea in legal vs. everyday contexts and avoid over-dramatizing casual requests.
Learning Tips
- Know the three main senses: legal stance, urgent request, and appeal for help.
- Memorize key collocations: plead guilty, plead not guilty, plea for mercy.
- Differentiate plea from plead (verb) and petition (formal request).
- Match tone to context: courtroom vs casual conversation.
- Practice with examples in both legal and everyday settings.
- Watch for synonyms: request, appeal, supplication.
5-Step Learning Method - Learn English in English
Step 1: Meaning
What is the meaning of the word 'plea'?
A.A request
B.A demand
C.A statement
D.An order
Step 2: Usage
In which sentence is the word 'plea' used correctly?
A.He gave a demand for help.
B.She made an order for forgiveness.
C.His plea for leniency was rejected.
D.They issued a statement of innocence.
Step 3: Similar Words
Which word is a synonym of 'plea'?
A.Complaint
B.Accusation
C.Praise
D.Argument
Step 4: Opposite Words
What is the opposite of 'plea'?
A.Request
B.Acceptance
C.Denial
D.Consent
Step 5: Mastery
How is the word 'plea' commonly used in court cases?
A.As a form of protest
B.As a statement of guilt
C.As a symbol of authority
D.As a request for mercy
Related Listening
🔥 Advanced
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