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appeal
/əˈpiːl/
a formal request for a higher authority to review a decision
The defendant decided to appeal the court's verdict.
The defendant formally requested a higher court to review the decision.
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
Related Phrases
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
rootEnglish Dictionary