Appeal: meaning, definitions and examples

When you want to formally ask for a decision to be changed, often in a legal or administrative setting.

• He decided to file an appeal against the court's decision
• The charity made an appeal for more donations

When you question or test the validity, legality, or authority of something, often with the intent to prove it wrong or invalid.

• She challenged the results of the election
• The lawyer challenged the witness's statement

When you express disapproval, disagreement, or opposition, often in a formal meeting or legal setting.

• The defense attorney raised an objection during the trial
• He had a strong objection to the proposed plan

When you formally request something from an authority, often through a written document signed by many people.

• The residents signed a petition against the new shopping mall
• She submitted a petition to change the local law

Use when making a serious or urgent request, often for help or support in difficult situations.

• They launched an appeal for donations after the hurricane
• The doctor made an appeal to the public for blood donations

Use when making an emotional or earnest request, often in legal or desperate situations.

• His lawyer entered a plea of not guilty
• She made a desperate plea for her child's safe return

Use for politely asking for something or asking someone to do something. It is often neutral and less emotional.

• She sent a friend request on social media
• He made a request for more information

Use when asking for something, especially money or support, often in a formal or business setting. It can have a negative connotation if seen as persistent or unwanted.

• The charity sent out a solicitation for donations
• There is a no solicitation policy in this building

Used in legal and formal situations where someone is asking for a decision to be changed or reconsidered.

• He filed an appeal against the court's decision
• The charity is making an appeal for donations

Commonly used when someone is asking for something in an emotional or desperate manner. Often carries a sense of urgency or desperation.

• She pleaded with her parents to let her go to the party
• The lawyer pleaded for leniency for his client

General term used in everyday situations when asking for something politely or formally.

• Could you please fulfill my request for more information? The teacher made a request for silence in the classroom

Appropriate when a formal request is made to an authority, often with signatures from many people.

• They started a petition to save the local park
• The citizens submitted a petition demanding better public services