entreat

Synonym Chooser

How is the word entreat distinct from other similar verbs?

Some common synonyms of entreat are adjure, beg, beseech, implore, importune, and supplicate. While all these words mean "to ask urgently," entreat implies an effort to persuade or to overcome resistance.

entreated me to join them

When could adjure be used to replace entreat?

The words adjure and entreat can be used in similar contexts, but adjure implies advising as well as pleading.

we were adjured to tell the truth

When is beg a more appropriate choice than entreat?

Although the words beg and entreat have much in common, beg suggests earnestness or insistence in the asking.

they begged for help

How are the words beseech and implore related as synonyms of entreat?

Both beseech and implore imply a deeply felt anxiety.

I beseech you to have mercy
implored her not to leave him

Where would importune be a reasonable alternative to entreat?

While the synonyms importune and entreat are close in meaning, importune suggests an annoying persistence in trying to break down resistance to a request.

importuning viewers for contributions

In what contexts can supplicate take the place of entreat?

The synonyms supplicate and entreat are sometimes interchangeable, but supplicate suggests a posture of humility.

with bowed heads they supplicated their Lord

Thesaurus Entries Near entreat

Cite this Entry

“Entreat.” Merriam-Webster.com Thesaurus, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/thesaurus/entreat. Accessed 25 Apr. 2024.

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