Petitions Meaning: Definition, Examples, and Translations
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petitions
[pəˈtɪʃ(ə)n ]
Definitions
political
A formal request signed by many people, appealing to authority in respect of a particular cause.
Synonyms
Which Synonym Should You Choose?
| Word | Description / Examples |
|---|---|
| petitions |
Used in formal contexts, often involving a large number of people or legal proceedings, to make a demand or request.
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| appeal |
Commonly used in legal contexts to refer to a process of seeking a formal change to an official decision. Can also be used in a broader sense to ask for help or support.
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| request |
A general term used in both formal and informal situations to ask for something politely.
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| plea |
Often used in legal contexts, particularly in criminal cases, to refer to a formal statement by the defendant. Can also be used generally to refer to an urgent and emotional request.
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Examples of usage
- The government received thousands of petitions calling for the law to be changed.
- She started a petition to save the local park from development.
legal
A formal written request to a court or other official body.
Synonyms
Which Synonym Should You Choose?
| Word | Description / Examples |
|---|---|
| motion |
Often used in formal meetings or legal contexts to propose a new action or decision. It implies a request that is considered and voted upon by a group or authority.
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| application |
Commonly used in contexts where someone formally applies for something such as a job, school admission, or a grant. It involves forms and documentation.
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| appeal |
Best used when referring to a request for a reversal of a decision, often in a legal context or in situations where someone asks others to reconsider or support something.
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Examples of usage
- The lawyer filed a petition on behalf of her client.
- The judge reviewed the petition before making a decision.
action
To make a formal request to an authority or organization.
Synonyms
Which Synonym Should You Choose?
| Word | Description / Examples |
|---|---|
| petitions |
Used when a formal written request, typically one signed by many people, is submitted to an authority.
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| appeal |
Appropriate when making a serious, formal request for help, or seeking a change in a decision; often used in legal contexts.
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| request |
Suitable for everyday situations when asking for something, often in a polite or formal manner.
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| plead |
Used to describe the act of begging or making an emotional request, often has a desperate or earnest connotation.
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Examples of usage
- She petitioned the city council to improve public transportation.
- The students petitioned the school board for a later start time.
Translations
To see the translation, please select a language from the options available.
Interesting Facts
Historical Origins
- The word 'petition' comes from the Latin word 'petitio,' meaning 'a request or an appeal.'
- In medieval times, petitions were often submitted to kings or queens to request specific actions or changes.
Legal Importance
- Petitions are essential in legal contexts, allowing individuals to express grievances or request a review of decisions by a court.
- In the U.S., the right to petition the government for redress of grievances is protected by the First Amendment.
Activism
- Many social movements have used petitions as a powerful tool to gather support and influence change, like the suffragette movement for women's voting rights.
- Online platforms for creating petitions, such as Change.org, have increased their visibility and effectiveness, reaching millions of people instantly.
Global Perspectives
- Petitions are a common practice in many countries, often leading to significant changes in laws or policies when enough public support is gathered.
- In various cultures, petitions may take on different forms, such as oral requests or collective demonstrations, reflecting local traditions.
Psychological Impact
- Research shows that signing a petition can increase individuals' feelings of empowerment and engagement in social issues.
- Petitions can create a sense of community among signers, as they feel united in a common cause.
Origin of 'petitions'
The word 'petition' originated from the Latin word 'petitio', which means a request or entreaty. It has been used in various forms throughout history to represent the act of formally requesting something from a higher authority. Petitions have been a common tool for individuals and groups to advocate for change or express grievances in both political and legal contexts.
See also: petition, petitioner.