B2verb1K

Beg

UK /["/beɡ/","/beɡz/","/beɡd/","/ˈbeɡɪŋ/"]/US /["/beɡ/","/beɡz/","/beɡd/","/ˈbeɡɪŋ/"]/

Definition

to ask somebody for something especially in an anxious way because you want or need it very much

In simple words: To ask someone for something very seriously or desperately.

Examples

He had to beg on the streets to make ends meet.
She decided to beg for forgiveness after her mistake.
The dog seemed to beg for food every time we had dinner.
He will beg his parents for a new bike.
I had to beg him not to leave the party early.

Usage notes

Used when asking for help or for something you really need. Can be seen as desperate; often not used in formal situations.

Grammar pattern

beg + object

Memory hint

Think of 'beg' as being on your knees asking for something.

Collocations

almost
practically
humbly
be forced to
have to
for
of
be forced to
have to
for
from

Synonyms

plead
request
implore
entreat
beseech

Antonyms

give
offer

Common mistakes

Confused with 'beg for' vs 'ask for'
Using 'beg' without an object; it typically needs one
Incorrectly using it in a formal context