Meaning: To make an earnest request or appeal:
* "The lawyer pleaded with the judge for leniency." (Present tense)
* "She pleaded with her parents to let her go to the concert." (Past tense)
* "They will plead for peace at the upcoming summit." (Future tense)
Meaning: To argue a case in court:
* "The defendant pleaded guilty to the charges." (Past tense)
* "The lawyer will plead her client's case before the jury." (Future tense)
* "He is pleading not guilty in the upcoming trial." (Present progressive tense)
Meaning: To claim something:
* "He pleaded ignorance of the rules." (Past tense)
* "The witness pleaded the Fifth Amendment." (Past tense)
* "They pleaded their right to a fair trial." (Past tense)
Other examples:
* "She pleaded with me to stay, but I had to leave." (Past tense, request)
* "The dog pleaded for a treat with its big, sad eyes." (Past tense, request)
* "The injured hiker pleaded for help." (Past tense, request)
You can use "plead" in a variety of contexts, but it usually implies a strong emotional appeal or a formal legal argument.