Appeal Meaning

UK /əˈpiːl/
US /əˈpil/
Word Definition
appeal meaning

Appeal Definition & Usage

noun

A formal request or plea for a higher authority to review a decision or judgment.

Examples

  • "He filed an appeal to challenge the verdict of the lower court."
  • "After losing the case, the defendant decided to file an appeal."
  • "The lawyer's appeal focused on a procedural error during the trial."
  • "She made an emotional appeal to the jury to consider the evidence more carefully."
  • "The appeal to the Supreme Court was rejected due to insufficient evidence."
verb

To make a serious or urgent request to someone for support, sympathy, or a change of decision.

Examples

  • "The organization appealed for donations to support the victims of the disaster."
  • "She appealed to the judge for a lighter sentence, citing her remorse."
  • "They appealed to the government to provide more funding for education."
  • "The charity is appealing for volunteers to help with the relief efforts."
  • "He appealed to the crowd's sense of justice during his speech."
noun

The quality of being attractive or interesting to someone, often used to describe something that is likable or engaging.

Examples

  • "The appeal of the new movie was its stunning visuals and emotional depth."
  • "The city's charm lies in its historical appeal and vibrant culture."
  • "His appeal as a leader comes from his ability to connect with people from all walks of life."
  • "The appeal of the beach resort is in its peaceful atmosphere and beautiful sunsets."
  • "She has a unique appeal that makes her stand out in the competitive job market."
verb

To formally ask for a decision to be reversed, especially in a legal or official setting.

Examples

  • "The defendant appealed the decision after the jury's verdict was announced."
  • "The lawyer plans to appeal the ruling on grounds of insufficient evidence."
  • "After the harsh penalty was imposed, the team appealed the decision."
  • "The company is considering appealing the fine imposed by the regulatory authority."
  • "The decision to ban the book was appealed by its publisher."

Cultural Context

The word 'appeal' comes from the Latin 'appellare,' meaning to call upon or address, and has evolved through French into modern English. In its various forms, it is commonly used in legal, social, and psychological contexts. In legal systems, an appeal is a crucial process that allows the party who lost a case to seek a review by a higher court. Beyond law, 'appeal' has become a term associated with the act of making an emotional or persuasive request in various settings, such as charity campaigns, political speeches, and marketing strategies.

The Appeal for Justice

Story

The Appeal for Justice

In the small town of Clearwater, a man named Jack had been wrongfully accused of a crime he did not commit. His trial had been swift, but the verdict was clear — guilty. His family, devastated by the injustice, knew they had to fight for his freedom. The case was far from simple, but Jack’s lawyer, Maria, was determined to win on appeal. The first step was to appeal to the higher court, citing numerous flaws in the original trial's procedures. As she stood before the court, Maria made a passionate appeal to the judges, arguing that her client had been denied a fair trial. 'The evidence was misinterpreted, and crucial witnesses were overlooked,' she pleaded. 'We seek justice, not just for Jack, but for the integrity of our legal system.' The room was silent as the judges deliberated. Maria’s appeal was not just legal; it was emotional too, a call for fairness in a system that had failed her client. Meanwhile, Jack’s wife, Sarah, made an appeal to the community for support, gathering funds and organizing rallies to bring attention to the case. 'We need your voices,' she said in her speeches, urging the townspeople to stand with her family. 'This is not just about Jack; this is about ensuring that justice prevails.' The town rallied behind them, and the appeal worked. The higher court decided to review the case. In the end, Jack was exonerated, and the wrongful conviction was overturned. The appeals for both legal review and public support had proven successful, illustrating the power of persistence and community effort.

The Appeal for Justice