apprise in 30 Seconds
- Apprise means to formally inform someone about something important.
- It's a formal verb, usually followed by 'of'.
- Common in business, legal, and official contexts.
- Avoid in casual conversation; use 'tell' or 'let know' instead.
- Definition
- To give notice to or inform someone about a specific matter. It is a formal verb usually followed by the preposition 'of' to indicate the subject of the information.
- Etymology
- From Middle English 'apprisen', meaning 'to estimate' or 'to inform', ultimately derived from Old French 'aprisier', which combines 'à' (to) and 'prix' (price). The sense of 'to inform' developed from the idea of 'setting a price' or 'valuing' information.
- Usage Notes
- 'Apprise' is a relatively formal verb. While it means to inform, it carries a sense of official or significant communication. It is almost always followed by 'of' to specify what the information pertains to. For instance, one would 'apprise someone of a development' rather than 'apprise someone a development'. In everyday conversation, simpler verbs like 'tell', 'inform', or 'let know' are more common. However, in business, legal, or official contexts, 'apprise' is frequently used to convey important updates or notifications.
The manager will apprise the team of the new project timeline.
We need to apprise our stakeholders of the latest financial results.
- Contextual Examples
- In a business meeting: "The CEO will apprise the board of directors of the company's strategic direction for the next fiscal year." This implies a formal presentation of important information to a governing body.
- In a legal setting: "The lawyer was tasked to apprise the client of the potential outcomes of the case." This signifies a professional and serious communication regarding legal matters.
- In government communications: "The ambassador will apprise the foreign ministry of the developments in the region." This suggests an official report being made to a governmental department.
- Structure
- The typical structure is: Subject + apprise + Object + of + Information. For example, 'The committee will apprise the public of the new regulations.' The 'object' is the person or group being informed, and 'of' introduces the specific information.
- Formal Notifications
- 'Apprise' is often used when someone in a position of authority needs to inform subordinates or stakeholders about important matters. For instance, a company director might 'apprise the employees of a new company policy'. This usage emphasizes the official nature of the communication.
- Updates and Briefings
- In contexts where regular updates are necessary, such as project management or diplomatic relations, 'apprise' is common. A project manager might 'apprise the client of the project's progress', or a diplomat might 'apprise their government of the latest diplomatic talks'.
- Legal and Official Contexts
- In legal documents or official reports, 'apprise' is used to denote the formal act of informing someone of their rights, obligations, or the status of a situation. For example, 'The court must apprise the defendant of their right to legal counsel.' This usage highlights the gravity and procedural importance of the notification.
- Reporting Information
- When reporting information that requires attention or action, 'apprise' fits well. A manager might 'apprise the team of a critical issue that needs immediate attention'. This usage implies that the information is significant enough to warrant a formal notification.
The committee decided to apprise the public of the upcoming changes to the city's zoning laws.
The company is obligated to apprise its shareholders of any significant financial transactions.
Please apprise me of your decision by the end of the week.
- Business and Corporate Settings
- In board meetings, shareholder updates, and internal memos, 'apprise' is frequently used. For example, a CEO might say, "I need to apprise the executive team of the Q3 earnings report." This is common when delivering formal updates on company performance, strategy, or significant changes to a group that needs to be officially informed.
- Legal and Governmental Communications
- In legal proceedings, official government announcements, and diplomatic correspondence, 'apprise' signifies a formal notification. A judge might apprise a defendant of their rights, or a government official might apprise a foreign delegation of a new policy. This usage emphasizes the official and often procedural nature of the information being conveyed.
- Academic and Research Presentations
- In academic conferences or research reports, presenters might use 'apprise' when informing their audience about new findings or the implications of their work. For instance, "This paper aims to apprise the scholarly community of the latest advancements in AI ethics." It suggests presenting significant information to peers.
- Journalism and Formal Reporting
- In formal news reporting, especially in articles discussing official statements or significant events, 'apprise' can be found. For example, "The spokesperson was tasked to apprise the press of the government's decision." This indicates a formal dissemination of information to a wider audience.
- Formal Correspondence
- In formal letters or emails, particularly in professional or official capacities, 'apprise' is used for significant notifications. A company might write, "We wish to apprise you of a change in our service terms." This is more formal than saying, "We want to tell you about a change."
The press release was issued to apprise the public of the new safety regulations.
The ambassador will apprise the United Nations of the humanitarian crisis.
- Incorrect Preposition Usage
- The most common mistake is omitting the preposition 'of'. 'Apprise' requires 'of' to introduce the subject matter of the notification. For example, saying "I will apprise you the news" is incorrect. The correct form is, "I will apprise you of the news." This is similar to how verbs like 'inform' and 'notify' also typically use 'of'.
- Using 'Apprise' in Informal Contexts
- 'Apprise' is a formal verb. Using it in casual conversation can sound pretentious or out of place. For instance, saying "Hey, I wanted to apprise you about the party tonight" is overly formal for most social situations. In such cases, "let you know", "tell you", or "inform you" would be more appropriate.
- Confusing with Similar-Sounding Words
- While not directly a mistake in using 'apprise', learners might confuse it with words like 'appraise' (to assess the value of something). The pronunciation is similar, but the meanings are entirely different. One should ensure they are using 'apprise' for informing and 'appraise' for evaluation.
- Overuse and Redundancy
- Sometimes, people might use 'apprise' when a simpler verb would suffice, leading to slightly wordy sentences. For example, "He decided to apprise himself of the situation" could more concisely be stated as "He decided to inform himself about the situation." While grammatically correct, it might not always be the most efficient word choice.
Incorrect: The lawyer will apprise the jury the verdict.
Correct: The lawyer will apprise the jury of the verdict.
Incorrect: I need to apprise you the changes.
Correct: I need to apprise you of the changes.
- Inform
- **Register:** Neutral/Formal. **Usage:** 'Inform' is a very common and versatile verb meaning to give someone facts or information. It's less formal than 'apprise' but still appropriate in many professional contexts.
Example: 'Please inform us of your availability.'
**Comparison:** 'Apprise' often implies a more official or significant notification than 'inform'. - Notify
- **Register:** Formal. **Usage:** 'Notify' is similar to 'inform' but often carries a sense of official or formal announcement, especially concerning rules, duties, or changes. It is also followed by 'of'.
Example: 'You will be notified of any changes to the schedule.'
**Comparison:** 'Notify' and 'apprise' are very close in formality and usage. 'Apprise' might suggest a slightly more detailed or preparatory briefing. - Advise
- **Register:** Formal. **Usage:** In British English, 'advise' (verb) means to give counsel or recommend a course of action, but it can also mean to inform. In American English, 'advise' primarily means to give counsel. When used to mean 'inform', it's often followed by 'of'.
Example (UK): 'We advise you of the potential risks involved.'
**Comparison:** 'Advise' (in the sense of informing) is more about giving guidance or recommendations along with the information, whereas 'apprise' is purely about conveying facts or updates. - Brief
- **Register:** Formal. **Usage:** To 'brief' someone is to give them concise, essential information, often before an event or task. It implies a summary.
Example: 'The general briefed his officers on the upcoming mission.'
**Comparison:** 'Apprise' suggests providing information, while 'brief' implies giving essential details in a summary format, often for a specific purpose. - Update
- **Register:** Neutral. **Usage:** To give someone the latest information about a situation. It's less formal than 'apprise'.
Example: 'Can you update me on the project status?'
**Comparison:** 'Update' is a more common and less formal alternative for conveying new information, especially in ongoing situations. - Let know
- **Register:** Informal. **Usage:** A casual way to say you will tell someone something.
Example: 'I'll let you know when I arrive.'
**Comparison:** This is the opposite end of the formality spectrum from 'apprise' and should only be used in very casual settings.
Instead of saying 'I will apprise you of the details', you could say 'I will inform you of the details' (formal) or 'I will tell you the details' (neutral/informal).
How Formal Is It?
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Fun Fact
The evolution from 'estimating value' to 'informing' is interesting. It's thought that 'appraising' or 'setting a price' on information implied understanding its worth or conveying its significance, which then led to the meaning of informing someone about it. It's like valuing the information enough to communicate it.
Pronunciation Guide
- Mispronouncing the 'a' sound.
- Incorrect stress on the first syllable.
- Confusing it with 'appraise' (/əˈpreɪz/).
Difficulty Rating
Recognizing 'apprise' in reading requires understanding its formal context and the specific meaning of informing someone of something important. It's not a word commonly encountered in casual reading material.
Using 'apprise' correctly in writing involves mastering its formal register, ensuring the correct preposition ('of') is used, and placing it in an appropriate context. Overuse or misuse can detract from the writing.
Speaking with 'apprise' requires confidence in formal language. It's often best reserved for professional presentations or specific situations where formality is expected.
Understanding 'apprise' when spoken requires good listening comprehension, particularly in formal settings like news reports, business meetings, or lectures.
What to Learn Next
Prerequisites
Learn Next
Advanced
Grammar to Know
Transitive Verb Usage with Prepositional Phrases
'Apprise' is a transitive verb that requires a direct object (the person being informed) and is typically followed by the preposition 'of' to introduce the information. Example: 'The manager will apprise *the employees* *of* the new policy.'
Formal Register and Word Choice
'Apprise' belongs to a formal register. Using it in casual conversation can sound unnatural. Example: Formal: 'The committee will apprise the public of the findings.' Informal: 'The committee will tell the public what they found.'
Passive Voice Construction
'Apprise' can be used in the passive voice. Example: 'The shareholders were apprised of the merger's details.'
Reflexive Usage
The reflexive form 'apprise oneself of' means to take the initiative to become informed. Example: 'It is important to apprise yourself of the latest regulations.'
Distinguishing Similar Verbs
Understand the nuances between 'apprise' (to inform formally), 'appraise' (to assess value), and 'prise' (to open with force). Example: 'The lawyer will apprise the client of the case status, not appraise the evidence or prise open the file.'
Examples by Level
The teacher will tell us about the test.
Use a simpler verb for informing.
Focus on basic communication.
My friend will let me know when he arrives.
Use a common phrase for informing.
Simple sentence structure.
Can you inform me about the meeting time?
Use a common verb for giving information.
Direct question.
I want to tell my parents about my good grades.
Use a basic verb for sharing news.
Expressing personal news.
The receptionist will give us the room number.
Use a verb for providing information.
Everyday situation.
Please tell me where the station is.
A simple request for directions.
Imperative sentence.
My sister will inform me about her travel plans.
Use a verb for sharing future plans.
Future plans.
The guide will tell us about the museum.
Use a verb for explaining something.
Describing a place.
The manager informed the staff about the new policy.
Use a standard verb for official communication.
Past tense, formal context.
Could you notify me of any urgent updates?
Use a verb implying formal notification.
Polite request, formal tone.
We need to apprise the client of the project's progress.
Use the target word for formal business communication.
Present tense, business context, requires 'of'.
The committee will advise members of the upcoming vote.
Use a formal verb for informing about an event.
Future tense, formal context.
Please update us on the status of your application.
Use a common verb for current information.
Request for current information.
He was briefed on the security protocols before his trip.
Use a verb meaning to give essential information.
Past participle, concise information.
The company sent a letter to apprise shareholders of the merger.
Use the target word in a formal written communication context.
Past tense, formal written notification.
They decided to let the public know about the road closures.
Use a casual phrase for informing.
Informal phrasing.
The spokesperson was authorized to apprise the media of the government's stance.
Use the target word for official communication to a group.
Past tense, formal context, implies official statement.
It is imperative that we apprise all stakeholders of the potential risks associated with the new venture.
Use the target word to emphasize the importance of informing.
Present tense, emphasizes necessity, requires 'of'.
The legal team will apprise the defendant of their rights and the charges against them.
Use the target word in a legal context for formal notification.
Future tense, legal context, requires 'of'.
The research paper aims to apprise the academic community of recent breakthroughs in quantum physics.
Use the target word in an academic context for sharing knowledge.
Present tense, academic context, requires 'of'.
Following the incident, the authorities moved quickly to apprise the public of the safety measures being implemented.
Use the target word for informing the general public about important actions.
Past tense, public information context, requires 'of'.
The ambassador was instructed to apprise the foreign ministry of the escalating tensions.
Use the target word in a diplomatic context for reporting.
Past tense, diplomatic context, requires 'of'.
Before the audit, the internal auditor will apprise the relevant departments of the procedures they will follow.
Use the target word for informing departments about upcoming processes.
Future tense, auditing context, requires 'of'.
The board members expect the CEO to apprise them of any significant challenges facing the company.
Use the target word for expectations of formal updates to a board.
Present tense, expectation, requires 'of'.
The committee convened to apprise the council of the latest findings from the environmental impact assessment.
Use the target word for formal reporting in a governmental or civic context.
Past tense, formal, implies a detailed presentation of findings.
It is incumbent upon the leadership to apprise the entire organization of the strategic shift and its implications.
Use the target word to signify a formal duty to inform.
Present tense, emphasizes obligation, requires 'of'.
The investigative report was compiled to apprise the public of the systemic failures that led to the disaster.
Use the target word for the purpose of a formal report informing the public.
Past tense, purpose of a report, requires 'of'.
The negotiator's primary objective was to apprise the opposing party of the non-negotiable terms.
Use the target word in a negotiation context for conveying firm information.
Past tense, negotiation context, requires 'of'.
The museum curators decided to apprise visitors of the artifact's historical significance through detailed placards.
Use the target word for informing visitors about important context.
Past tense, cultural context, requires 'of'.
The CEO's memo was intended to apprise all employees of the upcoming restructuring and its potential impact.
Use the target word for a formal communication from top management.
Past tense, corporate communication, requires 'of'.
The scientific journal published an article designed to apprise researchers of novel methodologies in genetic sequencing.
Use the target word for disseminating advanced information within a specialized field.
Past tense, academic publication, requires 'of'.
We must apprise ourselves of the latest regulations before proceeding with the project.
Use the target word in a reflexive form to indicate self-education on important matters.
Present tense, reflexive, emphasizes self-informedness, requires 'of'.
The treatise served to apprise the learned society of the nuances of classical rhetoric.
Use the target word in a highly academic and formal context for conveying complex information.
Past tense, highly formal, academic context, implies in-depth knowledge sharing.
It falls upon the ombudsman to apprise the public of their rights and the avenues for recourse.
Use the target word to describe the official duty of an ombudsman.
Present tense, emphasizes official role and public service, requires 'of'.
The historical account was meticulously crafted to apprise future generations of the pivotal moments that shaped the nation.
Use the target word for a formal and comprehensive historical record.
Past tense, implies a comprehensive and significant historical record, requires 'of'.
The diplomat's dispatches were crucial in apprising the home government of the geopolitical shifts in the region.
Use the target word in a high-level diplomatic context for reporting significant international changes.
Past tense, high-level diplomacy, implies strategic information, requires 'of'.
The symposium's proceedings aimed to apprise participants of the latest interdisciplinary research findings.
Use the target word for the purpose of a formal academic gathering.
Past tense, academic conference context, implies dissemination of cutting-edge research, requires 'of'.
The whistleblower's testimony was intended to apprise the tribunal of the extent of the corporate malfeasance.
Use the target word in a legal or investigative context for revealing serious wrongdoing.
Past tense, legal/investigative context, implies revelation of significant issues, requires 'of'.
The critical review sought to apprise the readership of the book's profound philosophical underpinnings.
Use the target word in a literary or critical analysis context.
Past tense, literary/critical context, implies deep analysis, requires 'of'.
The directive was issued to apprise all personnel of their updated responsibilities in the event of an emergency.
Use the target word for a formal instruction concerning important duties.
Past tense, formal directive, implies crucial information for specific situations, requires 'of'.
Common Collocations
Common Phrases
— To inform someone about the current circumstances or state of affairs.
The captain had to apprise the crew of the developing storm.
— To provide someone with the true details or information about something.
It is important to apprise the jury of all the relevant facts.
— To inform someone about new events or progress in a particular matter.
The diplomat was tasked to apprise the foreign ministry of the latest developments.
— To inform someone about modifications or alterations to something.
The company will apprise its customers of the upcoming changes to its services.
— To inform someone about potential dangers or negative outcomes.
The advisor had to apprise the investor of the risks associated with the investment.
— To inform someone about a choice or resolution that has been made.
We will apprise you of our decision by the end of the week.
— To inform someone about the results or conclusions of research, an investigation, or a study.
The research team will apprise the committee of their findings.
— To inform someone about the possible effects or consequences of something.
It's important to apprise the public of the implications of the new law.
— To inform someone about the steps or method to be followed.
The manager will apprise the new staff of the onboarding procedure.
— To take the initiative to become informed about something.
Before the meeting, it's advisable to apprise yourself of the agenda.
Often Confused With
'Appraise' (/əˈpreɪz/) means to assess the value or quality of something. 'Apprise' (/əˈpraɪz/) means to inform. The pronunciations are very similar, making it easy to confuse them. Example: 'The jeweler will appraise the diamond' (assess value), but 'The lawyer will apprise the client of the settlement offer' (inform).
'Prise' (or pry) means to force something open. It is phonetically different but shares some letters. Example: 'He had to prise open the stuck lid of the box.'
While 'advise' (UK) can mean to inform, its primary meaning is to give counsel or recommendations. 'Apprise' is strictly about conveying information. Example: 'The doctor advised him to rest' (counseled), versus 'The doctor apprised him of the test results' (informed).
Easily Confused
Both mean to give information.
'Apprise' is more formal and often implies official or significant news. 'Inform' is more general and can be used in neutral or formal contexts. <br> Example: 'I will inform you of the meeting time.' (Neutral) vs. 'The committee will apprise the public of the new zoning laws.' (Formal, official).
The company will inform its employees about the policy change. The board will apprise the shareholders of the merger details.
Both are formal and often used for official announcements.
'Notify' often implies a formal announcement of a rule, duty, or change. 'Apprise' can be broader, conveying updates or significant news. They are very close in meaning and formality. <br> Example: 'You will be notified of any changes.' vs. 'We need to apprise our clients of the service disruption.'
The school notified parents about the upcoming exam schedule. The ambassador apprised the foreign ministry of the diplomatic developments.
Both involve giving information.
'Brief' implies giving concise, essential information, usually as a summary before an event or task. 'Apprise' is about conveying information, which may or may not be a summary, and often carries more weight or officiality. <br> Example: 'The general briefed his officers on the mission.' (Concise summary) vs. 'The general apprised his officers of the enemy's troop movements.' (Detailed information).
The team was briefed on the project goals. The CEO apprised the board of the company's current challenges.
Both relate to providing new information.
'Update' is generally less formal and used for providing the latest information, especially in ongoing situations. 'Apprise' is much more formal and suggests a significant or official notification. <br> Example: 'Can you update me on the project status?' (Casual/neutral) vs. 'The spokesperson apprised the press of the government's decision.' (Formal).
Please update me on your progress. The company will apprise its customers of the new service features.
In British English, 'advise' can mean to inform.
While 'advise' (UK) can mean to inform, it often carries connotations of giving counsel or recommendations. 'Apprise' is purely about conveying information without necessarily giving advice. <br> Example: 'The advisor apprised the client of the market trends.' (Informed) vs. 'The advisor advised the client to invest cautiously.' (Recommended).
The lawyer apprised the client of the legal options. The consultant advised the client on the best investment strategy.
Sentence Patterns
Subject + apprise + object + of + [noun phrase]
The manager will apprise the team of the new strategy.
Subject + apprise + object + of + [gerund phrase]
We need to apprise the stakeholders of the potential risks involved.
Passive: Object + be + apprised + of + [noun phrase]
The shareholders were apprised of the company's financial performance.
Subject + apprise + object + of + [abstract noun]
The report aims to apprise the public of the environmental impact.
Reflexive: Subject + apprise + oneself + of + [noun phrase]
It is crucial to apprise yourself of the latest regulations.
Subject + apprise + object + of + [complex noun phrase/clause rephrased]
The directive was issued to apprise all personnel of their updated responsibilities in the event of an emergency.
Imperative: Apprise + object + of + [noun phrase]
Please apprise me of your decision by Friday.
Subject + apprise + object + of + [event/situation]
The spokesperson apprised the media of the ongoing negotiations.
Word Family
Nouns
Verbs
Related
How to Use It
Relatively low in everyday speech, higher in formal written and spoken contexts.
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Forgetting the preposition 'of'.
→
apprise someone *of* something
The verb 'apprise' requires the preposition 'of' to introduce the information being conveyed. Saying 'apprise someone something' is incorrect.
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Using 'apprise' in informal conversation.
→
Use 'tell', 'let know', or 'inform' in casual settings.
'Apprise' is a formal verb. Using it in casual conversation can sound unnatural or pretentious. For example, instead of 'I want to apprise you about the party,' say 'I want to tell you about the party.'
-
Confusing with 'appraise'.
→
'Apprise' = inform; 'Appraise' = assess value.
These words sound very similar but have distinct meanings. 'Apprise' is about giving information, while 'appraise' is about evaluating worth. Example: 'The agent will apprise the seller of the offer' (inform) vs. 'The agent will appraise the house' (assess value).
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Using 'apprise' without a direct object.
→
Subject + apprise + object + of + something.
'Apprise' is a transitive verb and typically needs a direct object (the person being informed). While sometimes used impersonally in very specific contexts, it's safer to include the object. Example: 'He apprised of the situation' is less common than 'He apprised *me* of the situation.'
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Overusing 'apprise' when simpler words suffice.
→
Choose the most appropriate verb for the context.
While 'apprise' is correct in formal settings, overuse can make writing sound stilted. Sometimes, 'inform' or 'update' might be more natural and efficient. Example: 'He apprised himself of the facts' could be 'He informed himself of the facts.'
Tips
Formal Notification
Remember that 'apprise' signals a formal notification. Use it when you need to convey significant or official information, typically in professional or academic settings. Avoid it in casual chats.
The Essential 'Of'
The preposition 'of' is crucial when using 'apprise'. It introduces the subject matter of the notification. Always structure your sentence as 'apprise someone of something'.
Sound-Alike Similarity
Be careful not to confuse 'apprise' (to inform) with 'appraise' (to assess value). They sound similar but have very different meanings. Practice saying them aloud in sentences.
Active vs. Passive
You can use 'apprise' actively ('The manager will apprise the team') or passively ('The team will be apprised of the plan'). Both are correct in formal contexts.
Formal Alternatives
If 'apprise' feels too strong or specific, consider 'inform' or 'notify' as formal alternatives that convey a similar meaning of providing information.
From 'Price' to 'Information'
Recall that 'apprise' evolved from a word related to 'price'. This connection might help you remember that it's about conveying something of value or importance – information.
Sentence Building
Practice writing sentences using 'apprise' in different formal scenarios. This will help solidify its usage and your confidence in applying it correctly.
Matching Formality
Ensure the overall tone of your communication matches the formality of 'apprise'. If the rest of your message is casual, 'apprise' will likely sound out of place.
Self-Informing
Remember the reflexive form 'apprise oneself of'. This is useful when you want to emphasize the act of taking personal responsibility for becoming informed about something important.
Memorize It
Mnemonic
Imagine a person standing on a platform ('ap-') giving a price ('-prise') for information. They are 'apprising' you of the cost of knowing.
Visual Association
Picture a formal messenger in a suit delivering an important envelope labeled 'NOTICE' or 'INFORMATION'. The messenger is there to 'apprise' you.
Word Web
Challenge
Try to use 'apprise' in three different sentences today, each in a different formal context (e.g., business, legal, academic). Ensure you correctly use the preposition 'of'.
Word Origin
The word 'apprise' comes from the Middle English 'apprisen', which itself derives from the Old French 'aprisier'. This Old French word is a combination of 'à' (meaning 'to') and 'prix' (meaning 'price').
Original meaning: The original meaning was closer to 'to estimate the value of' or 'to set a price upon'. This sense evolved over time.
Indo-European > Italic > Latin > French > Middle English > Modern EnglishCultural Context
Using 'apprise' inappropriately in informal settings can come across as pretentious or overly stiff. Conversely, failing to use it when a formal notification is expected (e.g., in a legal or corporate setting) could be seen as unprofessional or negligent.
In English-speaking countries, 'apprise' is recognized as a formal verb. Its usage is more prevalent in written documents and formal speeches than in casual conversation. The expectation is that when someone uses 'apprise', they are conveying significant or official information.
Practice in Real Life
Real-World Contexts
Business Meetings & Corporate Communication
- apprise the board of
- apprise stakeholders of
- apprise the team of
- apprise management of
Legal & Official Notifications
- apprise the defendant of
- apprise the client of
- apprise the public of
- apprise the authorities of
Academic & Research Settings
- apprise the community of
- apprise researchers of
- apprise the audience of
Diplomatic & Governmental Affairs
- apprise the ministry of
- apprise the delegation of
- apprise the government of
Formal Correspondence
- wish to apprise you of
- apprise you of the situation
- apprise you of the changes
Conversation Starters
"Have you ever had to apprise someone of important news in a formal setting?"
"When is it more appropriate to use 'apprise' than simply 'tell'?"
"Can you think of a situation where apprising someone of a risk is crucial?"
"How does the use of 'apprise' differ from 'inform' in business communication?"
"What are the potential consequences of failing to apprise relevant parties of critical information?"
Journal Prompts
Describe a time you received important information formally. How were you apprised of it, and what was the impact?
Imagine you are a CEO. Write a short memo to your board apprising them of a major strategic shift.
Reflect on the difference between being 'informed' and being 'apprised'. When does the latter term carry more weight?
Consider a scenario where you need to apprise a group of people about a sensitive issue. What challenges might you face?
Write a dialogue between two professionals where one uses 'apprise' and the other uses a more informal term. Discuss the effect.
Frequently Asked Questions
10 questionsYes, 'apprise' is considered a formal verb. It is most commonly used in business, legal, governmental, and academic contexts where official or significant information needs to be conveyed. Using it in casual conversation might sound overly formal or even pretentious.
The preposition 'of' almost always follows 'apprise' to indicate what the information pertains to. For example, 'apprise someone *of* the situation' or 'apprise someone *of* the facts'. Omitting 'of' is a common grammatical error.
You can, but only in very formal situations. 'Tell' is a neutral verb suitable for most contexts. 'Apprise' is reserved for when you need to convey important news or official information in a formal manner. For everyday communication, 'tell' or 'let know' are much more appropriate.
This is a common point of confusion due to similar pronunciation. 'Apprise' means to inform, while 'appraise' means to assess the value or quality of something. For example, you 'apprise' someone of news, but you 'appraise' a piece of art.
Use 'apprise' in formal writing such as reports, official memos, legal documents, or academic papers when you are officially informing someone about something important. For instance, 'The report will apprise the committee of the findings.'
Yes, very common phrases include 'apprise someone of the situation', 'apprise someone of the facts', 'apprise someone of the changes', and 'apprise someone of the risks'. The structure is almost always 'apprise [person] of [thing].'
Depending on the context and level of formality, alternatives include 'inform' (neutral/formal), 'notify' (formal), 'update' (neutral), 'brief' (formal, concise), and 'let know' (informal).
Yes, the reflexive form 'apprise oneself of' is used to indicate that someone is taking the initiative to become informed about something. For example, 'It is important to apprise yourself of the company's policies.'
It is used in spoken language, but primarily in formal settings like business meetings, official briefings, or presentations. You are less likely to hear it in casual conversations among friends.
The word 'apprise' comes from Old French 'aprisier', meaning 'to estimate the value of', which evolved from 'à' (to) and 'prix' (price). The meaning shifted over time to 'to inform'.
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Summary
Apprise is a formal verb used to officially inform someone of important information, typically followed by the preposition 'of'. For example, 'The director will apprise the board of the new strategy.'
- Apprise means to formally inform someone about something important.
- It's a formal verb, usually followed by 'of'.
- Common in business, legal, and official contexts.
- Avoid in casual conversation; use 'tell' or 'let know' instead.
Formal Notification
Remember that 'apprise' signals a formal notification. Use it when you need to convey significant or official information, typically in professional or academic settings. Avoid it in casual chats.
The Essential 'Of'
The preposition 'of' is crucial when using 'apprise'. It introduces the subject matter of the notification. Always structure your sentence as 'apprise someone of something'.
Context is Key
Consider the context and your audience. If you're in a business meeting, 'apprise' might fit. If you're texting a friend, use 'let know'.
Sound-Alike Similarity
Be careful not to confuse 'apprise' (to inform) with 'appraise' (to assess value). They sound similar but have very different meanings. Practice saying them aloud in sentences.
Example
I will apprise you of any changes to our travel itinerary as soon as they occur.
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