Advice Meaning: Definition, Examples, and Translations

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advice

[ədˈvaɪs ]

Definitions

Context #1 | Noun

life

Guidance or recommendations offered with regard to prudent action.

Synonyms

counsel, guidance, recommendation, suggestion.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

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Word Description / Examples
advice

General term for guidance or suggestions given to help someone make a decision or solve a problem.

  • She offered me advice on how to handle the situation
  • It's always good to seek advice from experienced people
guidance

Often used in educational, career, or personal development contexts. Implies a process of leading or directing someone.

  • The career counsellor provided guidance on choosing a major
  • Parents often seek guidance on how to raise their children
counsel

Typically more formal, often used in professional or legal contexts. Can imply a deeper, more thoughtful form of guidance.

  • He sought the counsel of his lawyer
  • The elders gave wise counsel to the younger generation
recommendation

Used when suggesting a specific course of action or choice, often based on experience or research.

  • The teacher gave me a recommendation for a good book to read
  • Based on your symptoms, I recommend seeing a specialist
suggestion

Often casual advice given in a non-formal context, usually implies a lighter or less authoritative form of advice.

  • I have a suggestion for our next team outing
  • Her suggestions were really helpful in planning the event

Examples of usage

  • Thank you for your advice on how to handle the situation.
  • She always gives me good advice.
Context #2 | Noun

work

Official notice or announcement, typically given by someone in authority.

Synonyms

announcement, communication, directive, notice.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

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Word Description / Examples
advice

This is given when someone is offering guidance or recommendations about what someone should do in a specific situation.

  • She gave me advice on how to improve my diet
  • His advice was to stay calm and think before reacting
notice

Used when giving someone information about something that is going to happen, usually in written form.

  • We received a notice about the scheduled power outage
  • She put up a notice about the lost dog
announcement

Used when someone is making a formal or public statement about something.

  • The school made an announcement about the new dress code
  • The company president made an important announcement regarding the merger
communication

Refers to the process of sharing information, thoughts, or feelings with others.

  • Effective communication is key to a successful team
  • We had a miscommunication and ended up at different locations
directive

This is an official or authoritative order, typically given by someone in a position of power or authority.

  • The manager issued a directive requiring all employees to complete the training
  • The government released a new health directive

Examples of usage

  • The CEO issued an advice regarding the upcoming changes in the company.
  • The advice was posted on the bulletin board.
Context #3 | Verb

general

Offer suggestions about the best course of action to someone.

Synonyms

counsel, recommend, suggest, urge.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

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Word Description / Examples
advice

Used when providing general recommendations in response to a request for guidance. Applies to everyday situations and professional settings alike.

  • She gave me some advice on how to save money.
  • I need your advice on which laptop to buy.
recommend

Typically used when suggesting something based on personal preference or expertise. Often implies a strong endorsement or preference.

  • I recommend this restaurant for its excellent seafood.
  • Her doctor recommended that she start a new exercise regimen.
counsel

Often used in formal or legal contexts, and can suggest a deeper level of guidance that takes into account various personal or professional factors.

  • He sought counsel from his attorney regarding the legal dispute.
  • She provides counsel to students about their career choices.
suggest

Used when offering an idea or possible course of action without strong emphasis or pressure. Suitable for both casual and professional settings.

  • May I suggest that we leave earlier to avoid traffic?
  • He suggested a quiet spot for the picnic.
urge

Implies a strong encouragement or insistence, often used when advocating for immediate or important action. Might carry a sense of urgency or seriousness.

  • She urged him to apply for the scholarship before the deadline.
  • The safety officer urged everyone to evacuate the building immediately.

Examples of usage

  • I would advise you to be cautious when dealing with that person.
  • She advised him to seek professional help.

Translations

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Interesting Facts

Psychology

  • Studies show that people often feel better when they receive advice, as it provides reassurance in decision-making.
  • The act of giving and receiving advice can strengthen personal relationships by fostering trust and communication.
  • Cognitive biases can affect how advice is perceived; what seems like good advice to one person might not resonate with another.

Cultural Perspectives

  • In some cultures, elders are seen as the primary sources of advice, their life experiences valued highly.
  • Different cultures approach advice differently; for instance, some may prefer direct suggestions, while others value hints or subtlety.
  • Folklore across the globe often contains proverbs or sayings, encapsulating wisdom passed down through generations.

Literature

  • Many literary works contain characters that serve as advisors, shaping the journeys of heroes, like Merlin guiding King Arthur.
  • Self-help books have surged in popularity as a genre, filled with modern advice on various life challenges.
  • Advice often serves as a narrative device, leading characters to profound self-discovery or important life-changing decisions.

Pop Culture

  • Television shows often feature characters who give advice, establishing them as relatable figures or 'life coaches' in the story.
  • Social media platforms have popularized the trend of 'advice columns,' where influencers share tips on everything from fashion to mental health.
  • Films frequently explore the dynamics of giving and receiving advice, illustrating its impact on personal growth and relationships.

Origin of 'advice'

Main points about word origin

  • Derived from the Latin word 'advisare,' which means to consider or reflect upon.
  • In Middle English, it was initially 'avys,' indicating thoughtful consideration before an action.
  • The term has evolved in usage, expanding from means of counsel to a general request for help or opinions.

The word 'advice' originated from the Old French word 'avise', meaning 'opinion'. It entered the English language in the late 13th century. Over time, its meaning evolved to refer to recommendations or guidance given to someone. Advice plays a crucial role in decision-making and problem-solving in various aspects of life.


Word Frequency Rank

This word ranks #1,769, placing it within important intermediate vocabulary. Learning it will significantly improve your ability to express yourself in English.