verb

anflehen

implore · beg

Wenn man jemanden ganz intensiv und mit viel Gefühl bittet, etwas Bestimmtes zu tun, weil man es wirklich dringend braucht.

Definition & meaning

The verb anflehen means to implore, beseech, or beg someone desperately and urgently. It describes an intense form of asking, often used when someone is in a state of great need, distress, or humility. When you "anflehen" someone, you are not just making a simple request; you are pleading with deep emotion, often for mercy, help, or a specific action.

Grammar & Word origin

anflehen is a separable transitive verb (trennbares Verb). In a sentence, the prefix an- moves to the end of the clause in the present and simple past tense (e.g., "Ich flehe dich an").

It is composed of the prefix an- (indicating direction toward someone) and the verb flehen (to plead/supplicate). The root "flehen" originates from the Middle High German word "vlēhen", which is related to the idea of flattering or speaking softly to persuade someone.

In terms of cases, it requires an object in the accusative case (jemanden anflehen).

Synonyms & antonyms

Synonyms:

bitten: to ask or request (more neutral and common).
beschwören: to implore or entreat (often with a sense of urgency or solemnity).
ersuchen: to request formally (used in official or polite contexts).
betteln: to beg (often used for money or in a more repetitive, sometimes annoying way).

Antonyms:

befehlen: to command or order someone to do something.
fordern: to demand or claim.
ignorieren: to ignore, which is the opposite of the engagement required in pleading.
anordnen: to decree or instruct.