Petitions: meaning, definitions and examples

Used in formal contexts, often involving a large number of people or legal proceedings, to make a demand or request.

• The citizens signed a petition to stop the construction of the new factory.
• She filed a petition for divorce.

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.

• The lawyer plans to file an appeal against the ruling.
• He made a heartfelt appeal for donations to help the disaster victims.

A general term used in both formal and informal situations to ask for something politely.

• I sent a request for additional information.
• He made a request to leave early.

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.

• The defendant entered a plea of not guilty.
• She made a plea for help in finding her lost dog.

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.

• The board passed the motion to increase the budget
• The lawyer filed a motion to dismiss the charges

Commonly used in contexts where someone formally applies for something such as a job, school admission, or a grant. It involves forms and documentation.

• Her job application was accepted after the second interview
• He submitted an application for a research grant

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.

• He filed an appeal against the court's decision
• The charity made an appeal for donations after the disaster

Used when a formal written request, typically one signed by many people, is submitted to an authority.

• They started a petition to save the local park.
• The petition against the new law has gathered thousands of signatures.

Appropriate when making a serious, formal request for help, or seeking a change in a decision; often used in legal contexts.

• He made an appeal for donations to help fund the research.
• The defendant filed an appeal against the court's decision.

Suitable for everyday situations when asking for something, often in a polite or formal manner.

• I request your presence at the meeting tomorrow.
• We received a request for additional information.

Used to describe the act of begging or making an emotional request, often has a desperate or earnest connotation.

• She pleaded with him not to leave.
• The child pleaded for another chance.