i suggested that

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "I suggested that" is correct and can be used in written English.
You can use it when you want to introduce the idea that you put forward in a conversation or discussion. Example: I suggested that we should meet up for dinner this week to catch up.

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Academia

Science

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

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

The New Yorker

And perhaps, I suggested, that may be what the book is really about.

The Guardian - Books

I suggested that this was juvenile.

The New Yorker

I suggested that maybe we should drive.

The New York Times

I suggested that both could be true.

The New York Times - Magazine

Then I suggested that Alison be in it.

The Guardian

I suggested that perhaps we should try the courts.

The Guardian

"I suggested that he alternate them," the Mayor said.

The New York Times

I suggested that maybe I would like her even more.

The New Yorker

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

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "I suggested that", ensure the following clause is in the subjunctive mood if appropriate, particularly in formal writing (e.g., "I suggested that he be present"). In more informal contexts, the indicative mood is also acceptable (e.g., "I suggested that he was present").

Common error

Be mindful of maintaining consistent tense between the suggestion and the outcome. For example, avoid mixing past tense in the main clause with future tense in the 'that' clause: instead of saying "I suggested that he will apply", use "I suggested that he apply" or "I suggested that he should apply".

Linguistic Context

The phrase "I suggested that" functions as a reporting clause, introducing a subordinate clause that contains a suggestion. It is used to communicate an idea or proposal that the speaker has put forward. As shown in Ludwig, it frequently introduces what someone has proposed or advised.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

64%

Academia

18%

Science

10%

Less common in

Formal & Business

8%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, the phrase "I suggested that" is a grammatically sound and frequently used expression for introducing a proposal or recommendation. Ludwig AI confirms its correctness and provides numerous examples from diverse and authoritative sources. While generally neutral in tone, users should be mindful of maintaining tense consistency and using the subjunctive mood when appropriate. Alternatives such as "I proposed that" or "I recommended that" can offer nuanced variations in meaning. Considering the extensive usage across news, academic and other sources, mastering the use of this phrase will enhance one's clarity and confidence in both written and spoken communication.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

I proposed that

This alternative uses "proposed" which is a more formal way of suggesting something.

I recommended that

This alternative implies a stronger endorsement of the idea being presented.

I advised that

This suggests a more experienced or knowledgeable position in offering the idea.

I offered the idea that

This alternative focuses on the act of presenting an idea for consideration.

I put forward the suggestion that

This is a more formal way of saying that you made a suggestion.

My suggestion was that

This shifts the focus to the suggestion itself rather than the act of suggesting.

I ventured to suggest that

This implies a hesitant or tentative suggestion.

I submitted that

This alternative is most suitable in a formal or legal context.

I posited that

This alternative presents the suggestion as a theory or hypothesis.

I hypothesized that

This implies the suggestion is based on limited evidence and requires further investigation.

FAQs

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

Use "I suggested that" to introduce a proposal, idea, or recommendation. For example, "I suggested that we "consider the alternative"".

What can I say instead of "I suggested that"?

You can use alternatives like "I proposed that", "I recommended that", or "I advised that", depending on the context and the strength of your recommendation.

Is it correct to say "I suggested him that"?

No, the correct phrasing is "I suggested to him that" or "I suggested that". The preposition "to" is needed when you mention the person you are suggesting to directly after "suggested".

Which is correct: "I suggested that he goes" or "I suggested that he go"?

In formal writing, "I suggested that he go" (subjunctive mood) is preferred. However, "I suggested that he goes" is commonly used and accepted in informal contexts.