a recommendation

USAGE SUMMARY

"a recommendation" is a perfectly correct and usable phrase in written English.
For example, "Before making a decision, I would like to hear your recommendation."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Academia

Science

Wiki

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

He has a recommendation.

The New York Times

It's a recommendation.

The New York Times

Would you have a recommendation?

The New Yorker

A recommendation, if I may.

The Guardian - Film

What a recommendation.

The Guardian - Arts

Ebay acquires a recommendation start-up.

The New York Times

Hoover declined to make a recommendation.

The New Yorker

That by itself is a recommendation.

The Economist

But I have a recommendation for you.

Independent

He has asked me for a recommendation.

The New York Times - Food

"Come Christmas, everybody wants a recommendation.

The New York Times

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When asking for "a recommendation", be specific about what you need it for to ensure the advice is relevant and useful.

Common error

Avoid using "a recommendation" in situations where a formal directive or mandate is required; instead, opt for terms like "requirement" or "regulation" to convey authority.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "a recommendation" primarily functions as a noun phrase. It refers to the act of suggesting or endorsing something or someone, based on its inherent qualities. Ludwig's analysis confirms its common usage as a direct object or subject complement.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

48%

Academia

15%

Wiki

13%

Less common in

Science

8%

Formal & Business

5%

Reference

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "a recommendation" is a commonly used noun phrase that serves to offer guidance, suggest choices, or endorse options. As Ludwig AI highlights, the phrase is grammatically correct and versatile, suitable for various contexts ranging from news and media to academic settings. While alternatives like "a suggestion" or "a piece of advice" exist, "a recommendation" retains its unique emphasis on endorsement and positive assessment. When using this phrase, be mindful of the specific context and ensure the advice aligns with the situation for effective communication.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

a suggestion

Replaces "recommendation" with "suggestion", implying a slightly less formal offering of advice.

an endorsement

Stresses the act of publicly supporting something.

a piece of advice

Frames the recommendation as a unit of advice, emphasizing guidance.

a testimonial

Implies a formal statement of support based on personal experience.

a good word

Implies speaking positively on behalf of someone or something.

a favorable review

Highlights the positive feedback provided.

a favorable mention

Highlights the positive aspect of the recommendation, focusing on endorsement.

an advocacy

Suggests actively promoting or supporting something.

a referral

Suggests directing someone to a specific resource or person.

a pointer

Offers a direction or tip, less formal than a full recommendation.

FAQs

How can I use "a recommendation" in a sentence?

You can use "a recommendation" when suggesting something or someone, such as "I need "a recommendation" for a good restaurant" or "She received "a recommendation" from her professor".

What is a more formal alternative to "a recommendation"?

In formal contexts, consider using "a proposal", "a suggestion", or "an endorsement" instead of "a recommendation" depending on the specific nuance you wish to convey.

Is it better to ask for "a recommendation" or "an advice"?

While both seek guidance, "a recommendation" implies a specific suggestion or endorsement, while "an advice" seeks general guidance. "Advice" is also uncountable, so you would ask for "some advice" or "a piece of advice".

What's the difference between "a recommendation" and "a reference"?

"A recommendation" typically involves suggesting something as good or suitable. "A reference", conversely, usually refers to a statement about someone's character or abilities, often for employment purposes.