recommend

USAGE SUMMARY

The word 'recommend' is correct and usable in written English.
You can use it when you are suggesting something to someone or when you are giving advice. For example: I recommend that you take a break and get some rest.

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Formal & Business

Science

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

Get in touch via [email protected] or @GuardianGDP on Twitter to recommend someone for our expert panel.

The Guardian

While I wouldn't recommend buying a foundation from Poundland (bit green), or its makeup brushes (you can do better at an art shop) there are several products you can happily invest in.

The Guardian - Lifestyle

Dr John Dean, a consultant cardiologist in Exeter, says NHS doctors who supplement their income by seeing patients privately end up compromising their ethics because they have a financial incentive to recommend treatment that may not be necessary.

The Guardian

"We just don't know enough yet to be able to assess what we will recommend to the Nigerians, where they need to go, what they need to do, to get those girls back," Hagel said.

The Guardian

I continue to recommend this book to everyone and anyone.

The Guardian

Sanders said: "We recommend that sex workers be allowed to work legally together.

The Guardian

And I always recommend that you focus on what you have in hand today.

The New York Times

"Well, I'd never recommend someone doesn't do something just because they have little experience".

The Guardian - Travel

I've read it now both ways, which I recommend.

The Guardian - Books

This review was widely tipped to recommend gutting the RET, so that wasn't a shock.

The Guardian

To ensure the future survival of the human race, the authors recommend tight restrictions be placed on the use of garlic.

The Guardian

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "recommend", clearly state the reasons for your suggestion to provide context and enhance the persuasiveness of your advice.

Common error

Avoid using "recommend" in overly vague statements without specific justification, which can undermine the credibility and usefulness of your suggestion. Always provide context or reasoning.

Linguistic Context

The word "recommend" primarily functions as a transitive verb. It expresses the act of advising, suggesting, or endorsing something as suitable or beneficial. Ludwig AI confirms that it is commonly used to present a favorable opinion or course of action.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

61%

Formal & Business

20%

Science

19%

Less common in

Academia

0%

Encyclopedias

0%

Wiki

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "recommend" is a versatile verb used to suggest, advise, or endorse something. As confirmed by Ludwig AI, it is considered grammatically correct and is very common in various contexts, particularly in news and media. When using "recommend", providing a clear justification enhances its effectiveness. While it maintains a generally neutral tone, adjusting the formality level can improve communication in different contexts.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

suggest

Emphasizes offering an idea or plan for consideration.

advocate

Implies active support or endorsement of something.

endorse

Suggests formally approving or supporting something.

advise

Focuses on giving counsel or guidance.

propose

Highlights putting forward a plan or suggestion.

commend

Implies praising or recommending someone or something favorably.

nominate

Suggests formally proposing someone for an award or position.

prescribe

Specifically refers to a doctor recommending a treatment or medication.

counsel

Implies giving professional advice or guidance.

put forward

Highlights the action of presenting an idea or suggestion.

FAQs

How can I use "recommend" in a sentence?

You can use "recommend" to suggest something you believe is beneficial. For instance, "I "highly recommend" this book" or "The doctor "recommends exercise" for better health".

What's the difference between "recommend" and "suggest"?

"Recommend" implies a stronger endorsement based on experience or expertise, while "suggest" is a more general offering of an idea. Using "I "recommend"" indicates greater confidence than "I "suggest"".

Is it correct to say "I'm recommending you this"?

While understandable, it's more grammatically correct and natural to say "I "recommend this to you"" or "I "recommend that you" consider this".

What are some formal alternatives to "recommend"?

In a formal setting, you can use alternatives such as "advocate", "endorse", or "commend" to maintain a professional tone.