C1nounformal5K

Plea

UK //pliː//US //pliː//

Definition

A serious or emotional request, often in a legal context.

In simple words: A request for help or mercy.

Examples

The defendant made a heartfelt plea for mercy from the judge.
Her emotional plea moved everyone in the courtroom.
He issued a public plea for help during the crisis.
The plea for justice echoed through the streets.
She filed a plea to the authorities to reconsider their decision.

Usage notes

Used in legal contexts (a plea bargain) or emotional contexts (a plea for help). Avoid in casual conversation.

Grammar pattern

plea + for + object

Memory hint

Think of 'plea' as 'please', a request for mercy.

Collocations

final plea
desperate plea
plea deal
plea for help
unconditional plea

Synonyms

request
appeal
entreaty
petition
supplication

Antonyms

insistence
demand
refusal

Common mistakes

Confused with 'plee' which is informal slang.
Using 'plea' as a verb rather than as a noun.
Misplacing 'plea' in complex sentences.