petition
To make a formal written request to an authority
Examples
In a meeting
“Residents plan to petition the city council for improved infrastructure.”
Over coffee
“We should petition the landlord to fix the heating system.”
Why this word
request
Petition is a formal appeal to authority often with signatures, while request is any general asking for something
appeal
Petition is a formal written document requesting action, while appeal is any earnest plea or legal challenge of a decision
proposal
Petition formally asks authorities to take specific action on behalf of many people, while proposal suggests or recommends a plan
Usage tip
Use for formal requests, especially to government or organizational authorities. Implies following proper channels and procedures.
Etymology
Latin 'petere' (seek, request) — to make a request
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Related words
implement
To put a plan, decision, or agreement into action.
proceed
To continue with a course of action
eliminate
To completely remove or get rid of something.
initiate
To cause a process or action to begin.
renew
To extend or restore something for an additional period
execute
To carry out or accomplish a plan