acting on advice

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "acting on advice" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used when referring to taking action based on someone's recommendations or suggestions. Example: "After careful consideration, I decided to proceed with the project, acting on advice from my mentor."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Encyclopedias

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

13 human-written examples

It seems the guy was acting on advice from bad counselors.

The New York Times

He said the firm was acting on advice from Architectonica, a Miami firm that is familiar with the ravages of hurricanes.

The New York Times - Science

When regional governments, acting on advice and forecasts from federal meteorologists, urged people to get out of Hurricane Sandy's path last fall, it proved a lifesaver.

The New York Times

Mr Fleischer said the secretary of state was acting on advice he had heard from foreign leaders rather than stating his own conclusions.

The Guardian

So Ms. Rubin-Vega went to Los Angeles to record new music, acting on advice that she should use her Panamanian roots to ride the Latin pop bandwagon.

The New York Times - Arts

Ms. Reno overruled them, acting on advice from other career prosecutors who said the discrepancies involving Mr. Gore's statements were minimal.

The New York Times

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

45 human-written examples

Then, acting on advices from the TV screen, they harvest the long, bright, weedless rows at the chain store, bringing home a carton of tomatoes with eye appeal and a package of instant potatoes.

The New Yorker

The Norse had been exposed to the Christian religion, and after first praying to the Norse gods, they undertook a fast, acting on the advice of one of their Christian prisoners, and the plague subsided.

Wikipedia

That world (grungy suburbs of Boston) features two young crooks (Scoot McNairy and Ben Mendelsohn) who — acting on bad advice from an older one (Vincent Curatola), a man who owns a failing dry-cleaning shop — hold up a Mob-run poker game that was formerly robbed by its very impresario (Ray Liotta) and whom, they're advised, will get blamed in their stead.

The New Yorker

The monarch, acting on the advice of the ministries, has the right to dissolve one or both chambers, at which time new elections are held.

Encyclopedia Britannica

Igor I. Shuvalov, a first deputy prime minister, said the government was acting on expert advice.

The New York Times

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "acting on advice", clearly state the source of the advice to provide context and credibility. For example, "Acting on advice from financial advisors, the company diversified its investments."

Common error

Avoid using "acting on advice" without specifying what the advice entailed. Instead of saying "He was acting on advice", provide details: "He was acting on advice to reduce his sodium intake."

Linguistic Context

The phrase "acting on advice" functions as a verbal phrase indicating the reason or motivation behind an action. It signifies that a decision or action is being carried out based on the recommendations or guidance received. Ludwig AI confirms its correctness and usability in written English.

Expression frequency: Uncommon

Frequent in

News & Media

45%

Encyclopedias

25%

Science

20%

Less common in

Formal & Business

5%

Wiki

5%

Reference

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, the phrase "acting on advice" is a grammatically correct and understandable phrase used to show that an action was taken based on some guidance. Ludwig AI confirms that it's usable in written English. While not overly common, it finds its place in various contexts, especially in news, encyclopedias, and scientific writing. When using this phrase, clarity is key: specifying the source and nature of the advice strengthens the message. Consider alternatives like "following recommendations" or "heeding counsel" for varied expression.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

following recommendations

This alternative focuses on the specific suggestions received.

taking guidance

This highlights the act of receiving direction.

taking direction from

This clearly indicates the source of the advice.

heeding counsel

This option carries a more formal and serious tone.

being guided by counsel

This passive construction emphasizes influence.

adhering to recommendations

This emphasizes strict compliance with the advice.

observing guidance

This highlights the act of noticing and adhering to instructions or direction.

complying with instructions

This alternative suggests a more authoritative source of guidance.

doing as suggested

This is a more informal way of expressing compliance with advice.

operating under direction

This implies external control or influence.

FAQs

How can I use "acting on advice" in a sentence?

You can use "acting on advice" to indicate that someone is taking action based on recommendations or guidance. For instance, "The government, acting on advice from health officials, implemented new safety measures."

What are some alternatives to "acting on advice"?

Alternatives include "following recommendations", "heeding counsel", or "taking guidance". The best choice depends on the specific context.

Is it always necessary to specify the source of the advice when using "acting on advice"?

While not always mandatory, specifying the source of the advice can enhance clarity and credibility. For example, "acting on the advice of doctors" is more informative than simply "acting on advice."

What's the difference between "acting on advice" and "acting upon advice"?

Both phrases are grammatically correct and have similar meanings. However, "acting on advice" is more commonly used in contemporary English than "acting upon advice".