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Petition Meaning: Definition, Examples, and Translations

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petition

[pəˈtɪʃ(ə)n ]

Definition

Context #1 | Noun

formal

A formal written request, typically one signed by many people, appealing to authority in respect of a particular cause.

Synonyms

appeal, plea, request.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

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Word Description / Examples
petition

Used when a formal written request is made to an authority, often signed by multiple people, asking for a specific action.

  • The community filed a petition to stop the construction of the factory.
  • She signed a petition for better working conditions.
appeal

Appropriate when making a serious or urgent request for help or support, often in a legal, emotional, or persuasive manner.

  • He launched an appeal for donations to help the flood victims.
  • The lawyer made an emotional appeal to the jury.
request

General term for asking for something to be done or given. It can be informal or formal but does not carry the weight or urgency often implied by the other terms.

  • I sent a request to join the meeting at 3 PM tomorrow.
  • Can I make a request for a day off next week?
plea

Used when making a heartfelt, earnest request, often in a desperate or emotional situation. It can also be used in legal contexts to denote a formal statement made by a defendant.

  • Her plea for her child's safety moved everyone in the room.
  • The defendant entered a plea of not guilty.

Examples of usage

  • Over 100,000 signatures were collected for the petition to be presented to the government.
  • The petition called for better protection of the environment.
  • She started a petition to save the local library from closure.

Translations

To see the translation, please select a language from the options available.

Interesting Facts

Historical Origins

  • The term comes from the Latin word 'petitio', meaning 'a request' or 'to seek'.
  • In the medieval period, petitions were often submitted to monarchs to ask for relief from laws or taxes.
  • The right to petition the government is guaranteed by the First Amendment of the U.S. Constitution.

Legal Framework

  • Petitions can be filed in various legal contexts, such as family court for custody or estate planning.
  • Different countries have specific laws governing how a petition must be formulated and submitted.
  • Public petitions often require a certain number of signatures for legitimacy, reflecting community support.

Social Movements

  • Many significant social changes, like voting rights and environmental protections, started with grassroots petitions.
  • Digital platforms have revolutionized how petitions are created and shared, making it easier for people to unite their voices.
  • Notable petitions, like the one for women's suffrage, mobilized thousands and played crucial roles in changing societal norms.

Psychology and Persuasion

  • Psychologists have studied how emotional appeals in petitions can significantly increase their effectiveness.
  • The principle of social proof suggests that people are more likely to sign a petition if they see others doing so.
  • Clear language and a compelling narrative are key elements that can make a petition stand out and resonate.

Cultural Significance

  • Petitions have been a part of democratic societies for centuries, representing a fundamental aspect of civic engagement.
  • Artistic expressions, such as songs and poems, have emerged from movements driven by popular petitions.
  • Cultural narratives often highlight the struggle individuals or groups face when their petitions are ignored, reinforcing the idea of justice.

Origin of 'petition'

The word 'petition' originated from the Latin word 'petitio' which means a request or entreaty. The concept of petitioning has been a part of human history for centuries, dating back to ancient civilizations. In modern times, petitions have been used as a way for people to voice their concerns and advocate for change in various social, political, and environmental issues.

See also: petitioner, petitions.

Word Frequency Rank

This word ranks #1,613, placing it within important intermediate vocabulary. Learning it will significantly improve your ability to express yourself in English.