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Definitions

plea

[plee] / pli /
NOUN
begging request
Synonyms
STRONGEST
appeal application entreaty overture petition prayer solicitation suit
STRONG
imprecation intercession orison supplication
WEAK
imploration round robin
Antonyms
STRONGEST
demand
WEAK
answer decision reply sentence
NOUN
excuse, defense
Synonyms
STRONGEST
action allegation apology argument claim explanation pleading
STRONG
alibi cause extenuation justification mitigation out palliation pretext rationalization right story vindication whitewash
WEAK
cop-out fish tale song and dance
Antonyms
STRONG
truth
WEAK
answer decision reply sentence

Example Sentences

Examples are provided to illustrate real-world usage of words in context. Any opinions expressed do not reflect the views of Dictionary.com.

At least 28 of them have taken plea deals.

From Los Angeles Times • Apr. 3, 2026

Consider this a plea to Kevin Warsh, nominated to succeed Mr. Powell as Fed chairman: Please, please, put the dots out of our misery.

From The Wall Street Journal • Mar. 26, 2026

As sometimes destructive protests broke out after police were acquitted, King made his celebrated plea, “Can we all get along?”

From Los Angeles Times • Mar. 26, 2026

Ortiz, who could face a life sentence, remains in detention and entered her plea on Wednesday in Los Angeles County Superior Court through her attorney.

From BBC • Mar. 25, 2026

Every sudden noise—the crack of a falling limb, the crash of a bolting deer—makes you spin in alarm and stifle a plea for mercy.

From "A Walk in the Woods" by Bill Bryson

From Roget's 21st Century Thesaurus, Third Edition Copyright © 2013 by the Philip Lief Group.