Advice: meaning, definitions and examples

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.