Usage and Nuance
The verb 哀求 (āiqiú) means to beg or plead earnestly, often with a tone of desperation or sorrow. It is stronger and more emotional than simply asking or requesting. Speakers use 哀求 when they want to emphasize their urgent need or deep emotional appeal.
Common Collocations
- 哀求帮助 (āiqiú bāngzhù): to beg for help
- 哀求原谅 (āiqiú yuánliàng): to plead for forgiveness
- 哀求允许 (āiqiú yǔnxǔ): to implore for permission
These collocations highlight the emotional intensity and urgency behind the request.
Register and Tone
哀求 is somewhat formal and literary compared to everyday words like 求 or 请. It often appears in written language, news reports, or dramatic speech. Using 哀求 in casual conversation might sound overly dramatic unless the situation is genuinely serious.
Common Confusion
Do not confuse 哀求 with 请求 (qǐngqiú), which is a more neutral term for requesting or asking. 哀求 implies a stronger emotional appeal, often with a sense of desperation or sorrow.
Summary
Use 哀求 when you want to express a heartfelt, urgent plea, especially in serious or emotional contexts. It conveys more intensity than a simple request and often involves a tone of sadness or desperation.