C1verbformalpoliticslaw
US/pəˈtɪʃ.ən/
UK/pəˈtɪʃ.ən/
to make a formal request to an authority, often with many signatures
In context
Residents petitioned the council to close the road to heavy trucks.
Students are petitioning the university for lower tuition fees.
He petitioned the court to reduce his sentence.
Words that go with petition
verb + noun
- petition the governmentFarmers petitioned the government for financial help.
- petition the courtThe family petitioned the court to review the decision.
- petition the councilResidents will petition the council to repair the road.
verb + preposition
- petition forNeighbors petitioned for a new pedestrian crossing.
- petition againstParents petitioned against the plan to close the school.
adverb + verb
- formally petitionThe union will formally petition the board next week.
Common mistakes
Incorrect:
petition about the roadCorrect: petition for (or against) the road