申诉

You usually pair it with a platform or authority. You can 向 (towards) someone 提出申诉 (submit an appeal). It works for big things like legal cases. It also works for small things like a social media ban. It’s a very active verb. You are taking a stand when you use it.

Use it when a system fails you. Did your boss give you an unfair performance review? 申诉. Did a website delete your post for no reason? 申诉. It’s perfect for professional or administrative contexts. It shows you know your rights. It sounds firm but controlled.

Don't use it for petty arguments with friends. If your roommate ate your yogurt, don't say you want to 申诉. That sounds like you’re taking them to court! For personal feelings, use 抱怨 (complain) instead. Also, avoid it in very relaxed, casual settings unless you're being ironic.

In China, the concept of 申诉 is tied to the legal and administrative systems. Historically, people would travel to the capital to "appeal" to higher officials. Today, it’s a buzzword in the digital age. With millions of users on apps like WeChat or Taobao, 申诉 is the standard way to recover accounts. It’s the bridge between the individual and the giant institution.

You’ll often see 申诉书 (a written appeal). There is also 申诉渠道 (appeal channels). If you win, you might say 申诉成功 (appeal successful). It’s a very structured word for a structured process. Use it when you want to sound serious and prepared.