What Does “Appeal to sb” Mean?
“Appeal to sb” means to attract or interest someone or to make a formal request to someone with authority.
Introduction
The phrase “Appeal to sb” is commonly used in English to describe something that attracts or interests a person, or when someone makes a serious or formal request to another person, often asking for help or a decision. Understanding the appeal to sb meaning helps learners use this phrase correctly in different contexts, whether talking about tastes, preferences, or legal matters. It is a versatile expression that appears in everyday conversations, advertisements, and formal situations. Knowing how to use “appeal to sb” helps improve both speaking and writing skills.
Quick Info Box
- Phrasal verb: appeal to somebody
- Type: Intransitive (usually)
- Level: B2 (Upper-Intermediate)
- Short meaning: to attract or interest someone; to make a formal request
Structure (Grammar Rules)
“Appeal to sb” is usually an inseparable phrasal verb, meaning you cannot put words between “appeal” and “to”.
Common patterns include:
- Appeal to + somebody (e.g., This idea appeals to me.)
- Appeal to + somebody + for + something (when making a request, e.g., They appealed to the government for help.)
How to Use “Appeal to sb”?
You use “appeal to sb” to say that something is attractive or interesting to a person or group. For example, a movie might appeal to teenagers because of its exciting story. It can also mean to make a formal request, often to a higher authority, for help or a decision.
Remember, it is followed by the person who is attracted or asked, introduced by “to”.
Examples
- The new smartphone design appeals to young people because it is stylish and affordable.
- Her speech appealed to the audience’s emotions.
- The charity appealed to the public for donations after the disaster.
- He decided to appeal to the court after the judge’s decision.
- These bright colors really appeal to children.
Common Mistakes
- Incorrect: This movie appeals me.
Correct: This movie appeals to me. - Incorrect: They appealed the government for help.
Correct: They appealed to the government for help. - Incorrect: The idea appeals for me.
Correct: The idea appeals to me.
Differences / Synonyms
Appeal to sb vs. Attract sb: “Appeal to sb” often implies a stronger, sometimes emotional interest or formal request. “Attract” is more about physical or general interest.
Appeal to sb vs. Ask sb: “Appeal to sb” is usually a serious or formal request, often in official situations, while “ask” is more general and informal.
Common Collocations
- Appeal to the public
- Appeal to the court
- Appeal to the audience
- Appeal to customers
- Appeal to emotions
- Appeal to reason
Related Phrasal Verbs
Here are related phrasal verbs of appeal to sb:
Real-life Dialogue
Anna: I’m not sure if this ad will work.
Ben: It should appeal to teenagers because of the music and colors.
Anna: That’s true. Also, we might need to appeal to the manager for a bigger budget.
Ben: Good idea. Let’s prepare a strong request.
Practice
Choose the correct sentence:
- a) The idea appeals for me.
- b) The idea appeals to me.
- c) The idea appeals me.
Answer: b) The idea appeals to me.
FAQs
- Q: Can “appeal to sb” be used in informal speech?
A: Yes, especially when talking about what interests or attracts someone. - Q: Is “appeal to sb” separable?
A: No, it is an inseparable phrasal verb. - Q: What is the difference between “appeal to sb” and “ask sb”?
A: “Appeal to sb” is often a formal or serious request, while “ask” is more general. - Q: Can “appeal to sb” mean to make a legal request?
A: Yes, it often means to make a formal request to a court or authority. - Q: What preposition follows “appeal”?
A: The preposition “to” always follows “appeal” when referring to the person.
