Understanding the Verb "Apprise"
Language is filled with subtle distinctions, and few words illustrate this better than the verb apprise. While it may sound like a word you hear in a boardroom or a political briefing, it is a powerful tool to have in your vocabulary when you need to convey that someone has been officially notified or made aware of a specific situation. To apprise someone is to ensure they have the information they need, often regarding a matter of some importance.
Definitions and Core Meanings
At its heart, apprise is about communication. When you use this word, you are implying that information is being transferred from one person to another to ensure they are "in the loop."
- To inform: The primary definition is to tell or notify someone about a development or an event.
- To make aware: It often implies bringing a situation to someone's attention so that they understand the current circumstances.
Note: While some older dictionaries or specific contexts might suggest meanings related to increasing value, these are extremely rare and often confused with the word "appraise." In modern, standard English, stick to the meaning of "to inform."
Usage and Grammar Patterns
The most important thing to remember about apprise is its grammatical structure. It is almost always used in the passive voice or followed by a prepositional phrase using "of."
The standard pattern is: to apprise someone of something.
Here are some examples of how to use it correctly in a sentence:
- The manager promised to apprise the team of any changes to the project timeline.
- Have you been apprised of the new security protocols?
- Please apprise me of your decision as soon as you have made it.
- The CEO was apprised of the situation immediately upon her arrival.
Common Mistakes: Apprise vs. Appraise
The most frequent error English learners—and even native speakers—make is confusing apprise with appraise. Because they sound nearly identical, they are often used interchangeably, but their meanings are entirely different.
Appraise (with an "a") refers to value. When a jeweler looks at a diamond ring to tell you how much it is worth, they are appraising it. When a manager evaluates an employee's performance, they are appraising that work.
Apprise (with an "i") refers to information. Think of the "i" in apprise as standing for "inform."
Quick Tip: If you are talking about money or quality, use appraise. If you are talking about giving someone the "scoop" or sharing news, use apprise.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is "apprise" a formal word?
Yes, apprise carries a formal, slightly authoritative tone. You would use it in a professional email, a legal setting, or a serious news report. You probably wouldn't use it to tell your friend about a movie you saw last night.
Can I say "apprise me about the news"?
Technically, people might understand you, but it is grammatically traditional to use "of." The correct phrase is "apprise me of the news."
Is "apprise" used in everyday conversation?
It is quite rare in casual, spoken English. Most people would say "tell me about" or "keep me updated" in a relaxed setting. Use apprise when you want to sound more professional or precise.
Is there a difference between "apprised of" and "informed about"?
While they are synonyms, apprised of suggests a more deliberate or official act of notification. Being "informed about" is more general and can happen in any context.
Conclusion
Mastering words like apprise allows you to navigate professional and formal environments with confidence. By remembering that "apprise" is for information and "appraise" is for value, you will avoid the most common pitfalls associated with these two similar-sounding verbs. Keep yourself apprised of new vocabulary, and you will find your ability to express yourself clearly and accurately continues to grow.