Apprised vs. Appraised — What's the Difference?

Apprised involves informing someone or making them aware of a situation or piece of information. It is often used in contexts where knowledge, information, or updates are being shared to keep someone in the loop. On the other hand, appraised relates to the evaluation or assessment of the value, quality, or condition of an object or a situation. This term is commonly associated with property evaluations, but it can also apply to assessing situations or performances.

When you are apprised of something, the focus is on the transmission of information. It implies that someone has been given knowledge or facts they previously did not possess. This could be updates about a project, information about changes in company policy, or news affecting one's work or personal life. Whereas when something is appraised, the emphasis is on judgment or evaluation. This process often involves considering various factors to determine worth, such as in real estate appraisals, where the value of a property is determined based on location, condition, and market trends.

The act of being apprised is essential in communications within organizations, between individuals, and in personal relationships. It ensures that all parties have the necessary information to make informed decisions or to simply stay informed about relevant developments. Conversely, the act of appraising is crucial in financial transactions, insurance, and in personal decision-making processes where understanding the value or quality of something is necessary for making informed choices.

In professional settings, being apprised of changes, updates, or new strategies is crucial for the smooth operation of projects and for maintaining alignment within teams. It allows for proactive adjustments and informed strategy planning. In contrast, appraising in a professional context might involve performance reviews where an employee’s work quality, achievements, and areas for improvement are evaluated, or it might involve financial assessments for budgeting purposes.

While being apprised is about receiving information, appraising often requires a certain level of expertise or criteria to evaluate effectively. For example, professionals trained in valuation methods are needed to appraise properties or artworks accurately. This distinction highlights the different roles and actions associated with each term, emphasizing the importance of context in their application.