Appraise vs. Apprise – Which is Correct?

While often confused due to similar sounds, appraise and apprise have distinct meanings. Appraise means to assess the value or quality of something, like property or performance. Apprise means to inform or notify someone of facts or details. Both are correct English words, used in different contexts.

Appraise or Apprise – Which is Correct?

Both “appraise” and “apprise” are correct and distinct verbs in the English language. The confusion arises from their similar pronunciation, but their meanings are entirely different. To remember the distinction, think of “appraise” as relating to “price” or “praise” (assessing worth), and “apprise” as relating to “rise” (as in information rising to your attention, informing you).

Word	Part of Speech	Meaning	Example
Appraise	Verb	To assess the value, quality, or nature of something.	The bank sent an expert to appraise the property before approving the loan.
Apprise	Verb	To inform or tell someone about something.	Please apprise me of any changes to the schedule.

How to Use Appraise

The verb “appraise” is primarily used to describe the act of evaluating or estimating the monetary value, quality, or significance of something. It often implies a formal assessment by an expert or a careful consideration. It can refer to property, assets, performance, or even a situation. The tone is typically formal and objective.

Example 1: A jeweler was hired to appraise the antique necklace for insurance purposes.

Example 2: Managers regularly appraise their employees’ performance to provide feedback and determine promotions.

Example 3: After reviewing the evidence, the committee will appraise the feasibility of the proposed project.

What are the different forms of Appraise?

The verb “appraise” has several forms:

• Present Tense: appraise (I appraise), appraises (he appraises)
• Past Tense: appraised (they appraised)
• Present Participle: appraising (she is appraising)
• Past Participle: appraised (it was appraised)
• Noun Form: appraisal (the act of appraising; an estimate of value)
• Noun Form (person): appraiser (one who appraises)

Etymology of the word Appraise

The word “appraise” comes from the Old French aprisier, meaning “to set a price on,” which itself derived from the Latin appretiare, meaning “to set a value on.” This Latin root combines ad- (to) and pretium (price, value). Its connection to value and price has been consistent throughout its linguistic history.

How to Use Apprise

“Apprise” is a formal verb that means to inform, notify, or tell someone about a particular fact, situation, or event. It is almost always followed by the preposition “of” and then the information being conveyed. It implies imparting knowledge to someone who was previously unaware, often in an official or serious context.

Example 1: We need to apprise the CEO of the latest market developments before the board meeting.

Example 2: The ambassador was careful to apprise his government of the delicate diplomatic situation.

Example 3: Please ensure that all team members are apprised of the new safety protocols.

What are the different forms of Apprise?

The verb “apprise” also has several forms:

• Present Tense: apprise (I apprise), apprises (she apprises)
• Past Tense: apprised (he apprised)
• Present Participle: apprising (they are apprising)
• Past Participle: apprised (you have been apprised)
• Noun Forms: apprisal (the act of apprising); apprisement (less common, similar meaning to apprisal)

Etymology of the word Apprise

The word “apprise” originates from the Old French appris, which is the past participle of apprendre, meaning “to learn” or “to teach.” This traces back to the Latin apprehendere, meaning “to seize, to grasp, to comprehend.” Over time, its meaning evolved to specifically mean “to inform” or “to make aware.”

Related Concepts

Understanding the distinction between “appraise” and “apprise” highlights the importance of precise vocabulary in formal communication. These words, while sounding similar, function as transitive verbs with entirely different direct objects and implications. “Appraise” takes an object that is being valued (e.g., “appraise the house”), while “apprise” takes an object that is being informed, typically followed by “of” the information (e.g., “apprise the client of the situation”). Choosing the correct word ensures clarity and avoids misinterpretation, especially in professional or legal contexts where accuracy is paramount.

Examples from Media and Literature

• “The company hired an independent firm to appraise the value of its intellectual property before the merger.” (Business News Report)
• “It is imperative that you apprise your superior of any significant changes in the mission parameters.” (Military Manual)
• “A careful observer might appraise the painting’s subtle brushstrokes and conclude its authenticity.” (Art Critique)
• “The government sought to apprise its citizens of the impending storm through emergency broadcasts.” (Public Service Announcement)
• “Her calm demeanor during the crisis allowed her to appraise the situation objectively and act decisively.” (Fictional Novel)

Practice Exercises

Choose the correct word to complete the sentence.

1. The real estate agent came to __________ the market value of our home.
2. Please __________ me of your arrival time so I can meet you at the airport.
3. Before making an offer, it’s wise to have an expert __________ the antique furniture.
4. The journalist was tasked to __________ the public of the complex political developments.
5. We need to __________ the risks involved before proceeding with the investment.

Answer Key

1. appraise
2. apprise
3. appraise
4. apprise
5. appraise

Appraise Synonyms

Synonym	Definition
Assess	Evaluate or estimate the nature, ability, or quality of.
Evaluate	Form an idea of the amount, number, or value of; assess.
Estimate	Roughly calculate or judge the value, number, quantity, or extent of.
Gauge	Estimate or determine the amount, level, or volume of.
Rate	Assign a standard or value to (something) according to a particular scale.

Apprise Synonyms

Synonym	Definition
Inform	Give (someone) facts or information; tell.
Notify	Inform (someone) of something, typically in a formal or official manner.
Advise	Offer suggestions about the best course of action to someone. (Can also mean to inform.)
Enlighten	Give (someone) greater knowledge and understanding about a subject or situation.
Acquaint	Make someone aware of or familiar with.

Frequently Asked Questions

Question 1: Can I use “appraisal” and “apprisal” interchangeably?
No, “appraisal” refers to the act of assessing value or the value itself, while “apprisal” (or more commonly “apprisement”) refers to the act of informing or being informed. They are distinct noun forms of their respective verbs.

Question 2: Are these words commonly used in everyday conversation?
Both “appraise” and “apprise” are generally considered more formal verbs. While “appraise” is quite common in contexts like real estate, finance, or performance reviews, “apprise” is typically reserved for official, professional, or written communication. In casual conversation, you’d more likely say “tell me” or “let me know” instead of “apprise me.”

Question 3: How can I remember the difference easily?
A simple mnemonic is to associate “appraise” with “price” (to judge worth or value) and “apprise” with “rise” (as in information rising to your attention, meaning to inform). Another way is to remember that “appraise” usually relates to objects or performance, while “apprise” relates to people receiving information.

Conclusion

Mastering the distinction between “appraise” and “apprise” is a hallmark of precise communication. While they may sound alike, “appraise” is about evaluating worth or quality, and “apprise” is about imparting information. By understanding their unique meanings and contexts, you can confidently choose the correct word, enhancing the clarity and professionalism of your language. Pro Tip: Using the wrong word can significantly alter the intended meaning of your message, potentially impacting your professional reputation and the clarity of critical communications.