Suggesting: meaning, definitions and examples

Used when putting forward an idea or plan for consideration. It’s informal and can be used in casual conversations or in a professional context without being forceful.

• She was suggesting we go to the new restaurant for dinner.
• He is suggesting a new method to solve the issue.

Used when offering a plan or suggestion, especially in a formal setting. It can also be used in personal settings such as proposing marriage.

• She will propose a new project at the meeting tomorrow.
• He proposed to her during their vacation in Paris.

Used when giving a suggestion based on experience or expertise, usually implying that it’s a good and trustworthy option. Often used in both professional and casual settings.

• I recommend visiting that museum; it’s really interesting.
• He will recommend the best software for our needs.

Implying guidance or professional advice, typically used in more serious or formal contexts where someone is giving their expert opinion.

• The doctor will advise you on the best course of treatment.
• I strongly advise you to back up all your data.

Used when introducing an idea or proposal in a neutral or positive manner. It carries a tone of offering a possibility without imposing.

• She is suggesting that we meet at 10 AM instead of 9 AM.
• The manager is suggesting a new workflow to improve efficiency.

Used when suggesting something indirectly, often by making an inference. It can have a neutral or negative tone based on context.

• His tone implied that he wasn't interested in joining the project.
• The report seemed to imply that there were some errors in the data.

Used to subtly imply something without stating it outright. It often carries a tone of secrecy or tact and can be indirect.

• He dropped a hint about her upcoming promotion during the meeting.
• She kept hinting that she wanted a new dress for her birthday.

Used to show or point out something clearly, often based on evidence or a specific observation. It is more direct and factual compared to the other words.

• The data indicates a significant increase in sales this quarter.
• Her smile indicated that she was pleased with the results.