appeal

/əˈpiːl/
nounverbIntermediate
⚖️Law
formal

a formal request to a higher authority to review a decision, especially in a legal context

The lawyer filed an appeal to the Supreme Court.

The lawyer submitted a formal request for the Supreme Court to review a lower court's decision.

💡

In legal contexts, an appeal is a process where a higher court reviews the decision of a lower court.

general

the power of being attractive or interesting

The painting has a universal appeal.

The painting is attractive or interesting to many people.

Collocations

appeal toto make a request to a higher authorityfile an appealto submit a formal request for reviewappeal processthe legal steps involved in requesting a review

Synonyms

Antonyms

Related Phrases

appeal to reasonphrase
to make a logical argument
appeal to emotionphrase
to make an argument based on feelings rather than logic

💡Pro Tip

Legal vs. General Use

In legal contexts, 'appeal' refers to a formal request for review. In general contexts, it can refer to the attractiveness or interest of something.

Gold Rule

Formal Context

When used in legal contexts, 'appeal' is always formal and follows specific procedures.

📖Word Origin

Middle English (late 14th century), from Old French apeler, from Latin appellare, meaning 'to call upon'.

📝Usage Notes

The word 'appeal' can be used as both a noun and a verb. As a verb, it means to make a formal request for review. As a noun, it refers to the request itself or the process of making such a request.

Word Breakdown

appeal
to call upon or request
root
English Dictionary