appraisal - Master This Word
Master this word with our 5-step learning method – Learn English in English
appraisal Word Meanings
- An assessment of the value of something, often a formal report or official estimate.
- The act or process of judging the worth, quality, or significance of something, such as a performance or property.
- An opinion or statement about someone's abilities or future prospects, especially in a formal performance review.
appraisal Example Sentences
Example sentences are the start of understanding. Don't rush to memorize. First feel how the word works in a sentence.
appraisal Phonetic & Pronunciation
UK
/əˈpreɪ.zəl/
US
/əˈpreɪ.zəl/
appraisal Word Etymology
Root decomposition: The noun is formed from the verb to appraise with the noun-forming suffix -al, related to the idea of price or value. Historical origin: from Old French appriser, from Late Latin pretium meaning price; final sense established in English as appraisal. Memory image: imagine a careful appraiser weighing jewelry on a balance to assign its value.
Note 1: These definitions and etymologies are not standard dictionary definitions, but extended explanations provided to help with memorization and understanding of the actual application of words. Through this background information, we strive to make words more vivid and easier to understand, and help you remember their meanings in real life.
Note 2: LexiTalk designs the learning flow around the linguistics principle of “Comprehensible Input.” When learners encounter material that is slightly above their level but still understandable from context, the brain naturally absorbs the language. That’s why we keep every word inside authentic contexts, using examples and associations to help you understand it and use it flexibly.
Read the FAQ explanation of Comprehensible InputReal Context
An appraisal is an assessment of value or worth, typically produced as a formal report, official estimate, or documented finding. It involves gathering relevant data, comparing them against standards, and applying criteria to determine price, quality, or significance. In business, an appraisal can value property, equipment, or projects; in performance contexts, it refers to a formal review of someone's abilities or achievements. The term can also describe the act of judging merit or potential based on evidence and professional judgment. Learners should note the formality and documentation that usually accompany an appraisal, unlike casual opinion.
Usage Reminders
- Use 'appraisal' for formal value judgments and official reports. Avoid counting it as a casual opinion. Pair with 'report', 'estimate', or 'valuation'. Distinguish from 'apprise' (to inform) and 'praise'. Remember it often appears in finance, property, and performance contexts. Check if the source is documented and supported by data. Practice reading real appraisal reports to learn common phrases.
Common Misconceptions
- Think appraisal is the same as praise or flattery.
- Assume it is only about financial value, not performance or quality.
- Confuse appraisal with a subjective opinion rather than a formal report.
- Use appraisal when you mean a rough estimate rather than a documented assessment.
- Mix up appraisal with the verb 'apprise' (to inform).
Thinking Differences
For English learners, appraisal often implies a formal, documented process with specialized terms like 'appraisal report' or 'property appraisal.' Learners should watch for collocations and avoid treating it as a casual opinion.
Learning Tips
- Learn the main collocations: appraisal report, property appraisal, performance appraisal.
- Know when to use appraisal vs estimate vs evaluation.
- Practice reading real appraisal reports for formal language.
- Remember the noun form contrasts with the verb 'to appraise'.
- Be careful not to confuse appraisal with praise or apprise.
- Use short, formal contexts like finance, real estate, and HR scenarios.
5-Step Learning Method - Learn English in English
Step 1: Meaning
What is the meaning of the word 'appraisal'?
A.Calm
B.Joyful
C.Evaluation
D.Whisper
Step 2: Usage
In which sentence is 'appraisal' used correctly?
A.She gave a hug of appraisal to her friend.
B.He felt appraisal after finishing the project.
C.The manager conducted a performance appraisal for the employee.
D.The appraisal of flowers filled the room with fragrance.
Step 3: Similar Words
Which word is a synonym for 'appraisal'?
A.Growth
B.Sadness
C.Confusion
D.Judgment
Step 4: Opposite Words
What is the opposite of 'appraisal'?
A.Critique
B.Praise
C.Negligence
D.Rejection
Step 5: Mastery
How is the word 'appraisal' relevant in a real-life context?
A.In assessing the value of a property before selling it.
B.In deciding what to order from a restaurant menu.
C.In planning a surprise party for a friend.
D.In choosing the right outfit for a job interview.
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