哀願

1. Origins, structure, and basic meaning

• Structure: 哀願 is read あいがん and means pleading earnestly for help or for a wish to be granted.
• Basic usage: It is used for begging to be let go or pleading for help in a trembling voice.

2. Common pitfalls and similar expressions

• How urgent the request feels
  • 頼む broadly means asking a favor, while 哀願する conveys an earnest plea.
• What is requested
  • In 助けてほしいと哀願する, と marks the content of the plea for help.