appraise - Master This Word
Master this word with our 5-step learning method – Learn English in English
appraise Word Meanings
- to assess the value of something
- to evaluate quality or importance
- to form a judgment about something
appraise Example Sentences
Example sentences are the start of understanding. Don't rush to memorize. First feel how the word works in a sentence.
appraise Phonetic & Pronunciation
UK
/əˈpreɪz/
US
/əˈpreɪz/
appraise Word Etymology
appraise = ad- (to) + praise (to value). Originating from Latin through Old French to English, the word evokes the image of placing a price tag on an item, evaluating it carefully. When you appraise, think of a magnifying glass assessing an antique's worth.
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
Appraise means to determine the value of something through careful analysis. It can refer to monetary value, such as appraising an antique or property, but it also covers judging quality or importance, like appraising a report or a decision. The job is to weigh evidence, consider context, and arrive at a reasoned conclusion rather than simply liking or disliking something. In use, appraise often follows nouns like items, assets, or risks, and it pairs with adverbs such as thoroughly or accurately. Some learners confuse it with admire or appreciate; remember appraise is about valuation and judgment, not emotional praise.
Usage Reminders
- Use appraise for formal valuation or judgment.
- Differentiate from admire (praising) and appreciate (grateful or valued).
- Pair with objects like items, assets, reports, or risks.
- Prefer adverbs like thoroughly, accurately for precision.
- Be mindful of prepositions: appraise the value of, appraise an item.
- Practice with real-world valuation scenarios.
Common Misconceptions
- It means praising or admiring something.
- It is only about money, not quality or importance.
- It is the same as 'apprise' (to inform).
- It can be used casually in informal speech.
- It always requires a monetary figure.
Thinking Differences
For English speakers, appraise emphasizes formal valuation and judgment, not casual praise or emotion. Learners often mix it up with admire or appreciate, which shifts meaning toward liking rather than assessing value.
Learning Tips
- Practice distinguishing appraise from assess and evaluate.
- Use with concrete nouns: appraise a painting, appraise assets, appraise risks.
- Pair with thorough/accurate for precision.
- Watch for prepositions: appraise the value of, appraise a property.
- Compare formal contexts with informal 'think about' or 'judge'.
- Use real-world scenarios like auctions or insurance.
5-Step Learning Method - Learn English in English
Step 1: Meaning
What is the meaning of 'appraise'?
A.To ignore or disregard
B.To give a gift
C.To judge the value or quality of something
D.To argue or debate
Step 2: Usage
Which sentence uses 'appraise' correctly?
A.She plans to appraise her garden next spring.
B.They decided to appraise the weather before going on the hike.
C.The teacher will appraise the students' assignments on Friday.
D.He was appraising the news articles on the internet.
Step 3: Similar Words
Which word is most similar to 'appraise'?
A.Evaluate
B.Separate
C.Dismantle
D.Ignore
Step 4: Opposite Words
What is the opposite of 'appraise'?
A.Assess
B.Value
C.Neglect
D.Analyze
Step 5: Mastery
Can you think of a real-life scenario where evaluating someone's work is important?
A.A chef preparing a meal
B.An artist creating a new piece of art
C.An inspector checking the quality of a construction project
D.A teacher organizing a field trip
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