Appraise vs. Apprise: Evaluate or Inform?

The Distinction

• Appraise = to evaluate or assess the value of something
• Apprise = to inform or notify someone

Using Appraise

“Appraise” means to determine the worth, quality, or significance of something:

• “The jeweler appraised the diamond at $5,000.” ✓
• “She appraised the situation before responding.” ✓
• “The home was appraised before the sale.” ✓

Think of appraisals—professional evaluations of value.

Using Apprise

“Apprise” means to give someone information or keep them informed:

• “Please apprise me of any changes.” ✓
• “He apprised the board of the new developments.” ✓
• “Keep me apprised of the situation.” ✓

Note: “Apprise” is typically followed by “of.”

Memory Tricks

• Appraise contains “praise”—you evaluate something’s praiseworthy qualities
• Apprise sounds like “advise”—you’re giving information

Common Errors

• “Keep me appraised of the situation.” ✗ → “Keep me apprised of the situation.” ✓
• “The expert apprised the painting.” ✗ → “The expert appraised the painting.” ✓

Quick Check

• Talking about value or evaluation? → appraise
• Talking about informing someone? → apprise