Petition
puh-TISH-un
/pəˈtɪʃ.ən/
A formal written request appealing to authority in respect of a particular cause, typically signed by many people.
Implies formal, respectful submission to authority to request legal or policy action.
The story behind the word. From Latin 'petitio' (a seeking or request), derived from 'petere' (to aim at, seek, or ask). Historically, subjects presented written petitions directly to monarchs to request justice or policy relief.
Word relationships
- appeal: An appeal can be verbal or legal, while a petition is usually a formal written instrument.
- plea: A plea is emotional or urgent, whereas a petition is structured and administrative.
- command: An authoritative order that requires no consensus or appeal.
- denial: Rejection of a submitted request.
Commonly confused with
- mandate: A mandate comes from authority down to citizens, whereas a petition goes from citizens up to authority.
Word family
- petitioner (noun): A person who presents or signs a petition.
Collocations
- sign a petition
- submit a petition
- online petition
- petition the government
Idioms & expressions
- formal appeal
- voice of the people
Example sentences
- "Residents signed a petition requesting a pedestrian crossing near the elementary school." Civic participation
- "The right of citizens to petition government officials is guaranteed in democratic constitutions." Constitutional law
Memory hook
PETITIONers PETITION (ask) for what they seek. Seeking justice on paper signed by the community.
When not to use
Do not use for informal demands or non-written verbal arguments.
Fun facts
- In the UK, any official online petition reaching 100,000 signatures must be considered for debate in Parliament.
Related words
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