Suggest: meaning, definitions and examples

Use 'suggest' when you want to offer an idea or a possible plan for someone to consider.

• I suggest we take a different route to avoid traffic.
• She suggested that they meet for coffee.

Use 'recommend' when you want to strongly suggest something that you believe is the best option or choice. It is often used when making personal or professional endorsements.

• I recommend trying the new Italian restaurant downtown.
• The teacher recommended several books for further reading.

Use 'propose' when you want to formally suggest an idea or a plan. It is often used in business or formal settings.

• He proposed a new project to the board.
• I propose we start the meeting with the budget review.

Use 'advise' when you want to give someone a recommendation based on your knowledge or experience. It is often used in a more formal or professional context.

• The doctor advised him to rest for a few days.
• I would advise you to read the instructions carefully.

Used when giving an idea or advice in a less formal or less forceful way, often when the person might be looking for options or opinions.

• May I suggest trying the new restaurant downtown?
• She suggested going for a walk to clear our minds.

Used when putting forward a plan or idea formally or officially, typically in a professional or organized setting. Often used in structured contexts like business meetings or formal discussions.

• I propose we start the project next Monday to meet the deadline.
• She proposed a new method to improve the team's efficiency.

Used when giving advice based on expertise or personal experience, typically implying a higher level of knowledge or authority. It often carries more weight and can be more formal.

• The travel agent recommended visiting the museum early in the morning to avoid crowds.
• Based on your symptoms, I would recommend seeing a specialist.

Used when speaking in favor of something more strongly, often in a formal setting or when trying to convince others of a particular course of action. This word can carry a sense of urgency or passion.

• He advocated for better working conditions at the company meeting.
• The doctor strongly advocated reducing sugar intake for better health.

Use this word when you are directly proposing an idea or plan in a polite or formal way.

• May I suggest visiting the new museum this weekend?
• She suggested that we meet at the cafe around 2 pm.

Use this word when you want to indicate something in an indirect way, often to express a point without explicitly stating it.

• Her tone of voice implied that she was unhappy with the decision.
• The report implies that there might be financial issues within the company.

Use this word when you want to give someone a clue or indirect indication about something without stating it outright.

• He dropped a hint that he might be interested in going to the party.
• Can you give me a hint about what the surprise is?

Use this word when you want to suggest something in a subtle, often negative or accusatory way. It can carry a more manipulative or sly connotation.

• He tried to insinuate that her work wasn't up to standard.
• Are you insinuating that I am not being honest?