# appeal from Philip drunk to Philip sober

idiom

Source: https://englishreference.com/idiom/appeal-from-philip-drunk-to-philip-sober
Updated: 2026-08-10

## Meaning

To ask someone to reconsider a decision or view they took while their judgment was swayed by momentary passion, excitement, etc.

## Examples

- I will appeal from Philip drunk to Philip sober when you are calmer.
- You are too angry to make a fair choice, so I appeal from Philip drunk to Philip sober.
- Recognizing that his colleague was acting under the influence of intense frustration, he decided to appeal from Philip drunk to Philip sober before finalizing the contract.

## Origin

Valerius Maximus, 6, 2, ext. 1: Provocarem ad Philippum, inquit, sed sobrium.—"I will appeal to Philip, she said, but to Philip sober."

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