I suggested that

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "I suggested that" is correct and usable in written English.
You can use it when you want to express a recommendation or proposal that you made in the past. Example: "During the meeting, I suggested that we consider alternative strategies to improve our sales performance."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

58 human-written examples

It was a schedule, I suggested, that could rival the Queen's.

The New Yorker

I suggested that this was juvenile.

The New Yorker

I suggested that maybe we should drive.

The New York Times

I suggested that he could also spend weekends this way.

The New Yorker

I suggested that he send a pitch-related baby gift.

The New York Times

"I suggested that we were losing the war," Adelman said.

The New Yorker

When I suggested that we dance, he looked annoyed.

The New York Times

I suggested that he set up closer to the ball.

The New Yorker

I suggested that we have a cup of coffee.

The New York Times

I suggested that perhaps she didn't know how he felt.

The New York Times - Magazine

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

1 human-written examples

I suggested that this power was being used to gag people.

Independent

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "I suggested that", ensure the verb in the 'that' clause is in the subjunctive mood (base form) for formal writing. For example: "I suggested that he be present", not "I suggested that he is present".

Common error

Avoid mismatching tenses. If you're using "I suggested that" (past tense), ensure the subsequent clause logically aligns in time, or use the subjunctive mood where appropriate.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "I suggested that" functions as a clause introducer, specifically a declarative content clause. It indicates the speaker is reporting a suggestion they previously made. Ludwig AI shows the phrase is commonly used in news and media to report past events or proposals.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

89%

Science

5%

Wiki

2%

Less common in

Formal & Business

2%

Encyclopedias

0%

Reference

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, the phrase "I suggested that" is a highly common and grammatically sound way to report a past suggestion or proposal. Ludwig AI indicates that it is frequently used in news and media contexts, although its neutral register makes it appropriate for a wide range of situations. When using this phrase, it is important to pay attention to tense consistency and, in formal writing, consider using the subjunctive mood in the 'that' clause. Alternatives such as "I proposed that" or "I recommended that" can provide subtle variations in meaning and formality.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

I proposed that

Similar in meaning, but slightly more formal, implying a more structured suggestion or plan.

I recommended that

Implies giving advice based on expertise or knowledge.

I advised that

Similar to recommended, but can carry a stronger sense of caution or warning.

I offered the idea that

Highlights the act of introducing a new concept or possibility.

I put forward that

Suggests a formal presentation of an idea for consideration.

I floated the notion that

Indicates a more tentative or exploratory suggestion.

I ventured that

Expresses a cautious or hesitant suggestion, often in uncertain situations.

I posited that

More formal, suggesting a hypothesis or statement put forward for consideration.

I hypothesized that

Used in a scientific or analytical context to propose a testable explanation.

I surmised that

Implies a conclusion or suggestion based on limited evidence or intuition.

FAQs

How do I use "I suggested that" in a sentence?

Use "I suggested that" to introduce a proposal or recommendation you made. For instance, "I suggested that we postpone the meeting".

What are some alternatives to "I suggested that"?

You can use alternatives like "I proposed that", "I recommended that", or "I advised that" depending on the context.

Is it always necessary to use "that" after "I suggested"?

While "that" is often included for clarity and formality, it can be omitted in informal contexts without changing the meaning. For example, "I suggested we postpone the meeting" is acceptable.

How does the formality of "I suggested that" compare to its alternatives?

"I suggested that" is generally neutral. Alternatives like "I posited that" are more formal, while "I thought" might be more casual.