The word entreating is often used to describe a strong or earnest request. It conveys a sense of urgency emotion and sometimes desperation. Whether found in literature everyday conversations or formal writing entreating carries a deep meaning that goes beyond a simple request.
This topic explores the definition of entreating its synonyms examples of usage and how it differs from similar words.
1. Definition of Entreating
Basic Meaning
The word entreating comes from the verb entreat which means to ask someone earnestly or desperately for something. It implies deep emotion urgency or sincerity in the request.
Dictionary Definitions
Different dictionaries define entreating as follows:
- Merriam-Webster: To plead or ask earnestly.
- Oxford Dictionary: To beg someone to do something with deep sincerity.
- Cambridge Dictionary: To request something in an emotional or serious manner.
Key Characteristics of Entreating
✔ Involves urgency and sincerity
✔ Often used in pleas requests or prayers
✔ Stronger than a casual request but not as forceful as a demand
2. Synonyms and Related Words
Several words are closely related to entreating each with a slightly different nuance.
| Word | Meaning | Example |
|---|---|---|
| Begging | Asking repeatedly with desperation | “She was begging for forgiveness.” |
| Pleading | Making an emotional appeal | “He was pleading for another chance.” |
| Imploring | Urgently asking for help | “She implored him not to leave.” |
| Supplicating | A formal or religious request | “He supplicated before the king.” |
| Beseeching | Asking with a sense of deep need | “She gave him a beseeching look.” |
How Entreating Differs from Similar Words
- Begging often implies desperation or humiliation.
- Pleading is similar but used more in legal or personal appeals.
- Imploring has a poetic emotional tone.
- Beseeching is slightly old-fashioned but deeply emotional.
3. Entreating in Literature and History
The word entreating is commonly found in classic literature historical speeches and religious texts.
Entreating in Literature
Many famous authors have used entreating to convey emotion.
- William Shakespeare: “I do entreat you not a man depart save I alone till Antony have spoke.”
- Jane Austen: “She was entreating him to stay her voice filled with urgency.”
Entreating in Religious and Historical Texts
- Biblical Use: Many prayers use the word entreating to describe sincere requests to God.
- Historical Speeches: Leaders often use entreating language to persuade people to act.
4. Examples of Entreating in Sentences
To better understand how entreating is used here are some example sentences:
Formal Usage
- “The lawyer was entreating the judge to reconsider the case.”
- “He wrote a letter entreating the king for mercy.”
Everyday Usage
- “She looked at him with entreating eyes hoping he would listen.”
- “They were entreating their parents to let them stay out longer.”
Literary Usage
- “The knight fell to his knees entreating the queen for forgiveness.”
- “With an entreating tone she whispered ‘Please don’t go.'”
5. When to Use Entreating?
The word entreating is appropriate in situations where a request is urgent heartfelt or desperate.
Situations Where “Entreating” Fits Best
✅ Asking for forgiveness – “He was entreating her to forgive him.”
✅ Making an urgent request – “The villagers were entreating the mayor for help.”
✅ Writing a formal plea – “She sent a letter entreating for financial aid.”
✅ Expressing deep emotion – “With an entreating voice she begged him to stay.”
6. Common Mistakes and Misconceptions
Some people confuse entreating with similar words or use it incorrectly. Here are common mistakes:
1. Using It for Casual Requests
❌ Incorrect: “She was entreating her friend for a cup of coffee.”
✅ Correct: “She was asking her friend for a cup of coffee.”
(Entreating is too strong for everyday favors.)
2. Confusing It with Demanding
❌ Incorrect: “He was entreating them to finish the project on time.”
✅ Correct: “He was urging them to finish the project on time.”
(Entreating implies a request not an order.)
3. Using It in Negative Contexts
❌ Incorrect: “The thief was entreating people to give him their money.”
✅ Correct: “The thief was demanding people to give him their money.”
(Entreating is more about sincere or emotional appeals.)
7. How to Use Entreating in Writing and Speech
If you want to sound more expressive and persuasive using entreating correctly can enhance your communication.
Tips for Using Entreating Effectively
✔ Use it in emotional requests – “She spoke in an entreating tone.”
✔ Use it in formal writing – “The ambassador was entreating for peace.”
✔ Use it in literary contexts – “With entreating eyes he reached out to her.”
When to Avoid Entreating?
❌ In casual conversations – “He was entreating me to buy a burger.” (Too dramatic!)
❌ In forceful demands – “She was entreating them to work faster.” (Better to use ‘urging’ or ‘pressuring’.)
8. Final Thoughts on Entreating
The word entreating is a powerful way to express deep emotion and urgency in a request. It is commonly used in literature historical speeches religious texts and formal appeals.
By understanding its meaning synonyms and correct usage you can use entreating effectively to enhance your writing and communication skills.
