Implorare vs. pregare vs. supplicare
The Italian words 'implorare', 'pregare', and 'supplicare' all relate to asking or begging, but they have subtle differences in intensity and context.
Implorare
'Implorare' means to implore or beseech earnestly. It implies a strong, emotional appeal for help or mercy.
Il prigioniero implorava il giudice di essere clemente.
(The prisoner implored the judge to be merciful.)
La madre implorava il dottore di salvare suo figlio.
(The mother implored the doctor to save her son.)
Pregare
'Pregare' primarily means to pray, but it can also mean to ask or request politely. It's less intense than 'implorare' and can be used in both religious and secular contexts.
I fedeli pregavano in chiesa per la pace.
(The faithful prayed in church for peace.)
Ti prego di aiutarmi con questo problema.
(I beg you to help me with this problem.)
Supplicare
'Supplicare' means to supplicate or beg humbly and earnestly. It implies a more desperate or submissive plea than 'implorare'.
L'uomo supplicava il suo capo di non licenziarlo.
(The man begged his boss not to fire him.)
Il mendicante supplicava i passanti per qualche spicciolo.
(The beggar pleaded with passersby for some change.)
Summary
While all three words involve asking or begging, 'implorare' is an earnest emotional appeal, 'pregare' is a polite request or prayer, and 'supplicare' is a humble, desperate plea. 'Implorare' and 'supplicare' are more intense than 'pregare', with 'supplicare' implying the most urgency or submission.