could use some guidance

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "could use some guidance" is correct and usable in written English.
You can use it when expressing that someone or something would benefit from advice or direction. Example: "As a new employee, I could use some guidance on the company's policies and procedures."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Academia

Science

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

8 human-written examples

They're all young and they could use some guidance".

The New Yorker

(One Salafi did suggest that she could use some "guidance," and two other Salafis fled in terror rather than be interviewed by an infidel and a woman).

The New York Times

It's that even the members of reading clubs could use some guidance making sense of a culture in which almost nothing is taken seriously unless it first makes fun of what it is.

The New Yorker

Are you working on an NSF grant (or plan to write one in the future) and feel like you could use some guidance on the Broader Impacts (BI) requirement?

Duke University

And, as with other relationships, being coy does little to help your case". There's nothing wrong with saying you're having an issue with a co-worker or a client and could use some guidance, as opposed to saying something vague like, "we need to talk". Be prepared.

Forbes

While I like efficiency when having my car serviced or ordering lunch on a short break, I decided this technician could use some guidance.

Huffington Post

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

52 human-written examples

This isn't exactly a remake of the 1950 film starring Clifton Webb as an efficiency expert who liked to test his theories on his own huge family: Mr. Martin plays a football coach who gets a new, time-consuming city job and Ms. Hunt is an author on a book tour, and both could use some time-management guidance.

The New York Times - Arts

"We could all use some guidance.

Huffington Post

Paul could use some companionship.

The New York Times

We could use some coal.

The New Yorker

Dany could use some new ideas.

The New Yorker

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using the phrase "could use some guidance", be specific about the area where guidance is needed to provide clarity and context. For example, instead of saying "The project could use some guidance", specify "The project could use some guidance on budget allocation."

Common error

Avoid using "could use some guidance" without specifying the subject matter. Vague statements can leave your audience wondering exactly what kind of help is needed. Always provide a specific context.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "could use some guidance" functions as a hedge or understatement, expressing a need for advice or direction in a polite and indirect manner. Ludwig AI shows that this phrase is commonly used in various contexts to suggest improvement or assistance without being overly critical.

Expression frequency: Uncommon

Frequent in

News & Media

50%

Academia

16%

Science

13%

Less common in

Formal & Business

0%

Encyclopedias

0%

Wiki

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, the phrase "could use some guidance" is a polite and understated way of suggesting that someone or something would benefit from advice or direction. Ludwig AI confirms that it's grammatically correct and suitable for various contexts, particularly in news, academia, and general professional settings. While alternatives like "could benefit from some direction" or "would appreciate some input" exist, this phrase strikes a balance between directness and tact. Remember to specify the subject requiring guidance to avoid vagueness and enhance clarity.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

could benefit from some direction

Emphasizes the need for a clear path or instructions.

would appreciate some input

Highlights the desire for feedback or suggestions.

could do with some pointers

Suggests a need for specific, practical tips.

might need some assistance

Focuses on needing help or aid in a general sense.

would value some recommendations

Indicates a desire for suggested courses of action.

could use some mentoring

Highlights the need for guidance from an experienced person.

would be grateful for some advice

Expresses thankfulness for received counsel.

might require some supervision

Focuses on needing oversight and monitoring.

could profit from some training

Suggests a need for structured learning and skill development.

would welcome some orientation

Emphasizes the need for initial instruction and familiarization.

FAQs

How can I rephrase "could use some guidance" to sound more formal?

For a more formal tone, consider using phrases like "would benefit from additional direction", "would appreciate expert consultation", or "requires further orientation".

What's a less direct way to say someone "could use some guidance"?

Instead of saying someone directly "could use some guidance", you could say they "might benefit from further support" or "would find it helpful to consult with an expert".

Is it appropriate to use "could use some guidance" in a professional setting?

Yes, it is appropriate, especially when offering constructive feedback or suggesting areas for improvement. However, ensure the tone is supportive and not critical. Alternatively, consider a phrase like "could benefit from some direction".

What's the difference between "could use some guidance" and "needs help"?

"Could use some guidance" is generally a more polite and less direct way of saying someone "needs help". It suggests a desire for advice and direction, rather than implying a deficiency or inability. Consider using "would appreciate some input".