suggest

USAGE SUMMARY

"suggest" is correct and can be used in written English.
You can use it when you are recommending ideas, solutions, or courses of action. Example: "I suggest we take the train instead of driving."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

But Waldfogel's studies also suggest a very different solution: if most of the presents we buy are going to be less valuable in monetary terms than in sentimental ones, then there's no reason to believe that the more expensive gift is a better gift.

The Economist

Headlines about mega-salaries for blockbusters suggest a degree of industry transparency.

The Guardian - Film

We know that the offender has periods of non-offending that may suggest he is not always in the UK".

The Guardian

Nor will be successful by listening to those who suggest we can hide away from the world.

The Guardian - Opinion

More practical reasons suggest themselves for the success of Chilean wine: the central valleys boast rich alluvial soil, and the climate found between 28 and 38 degrees of latitude is perfect for the vines.

The Guardian - Travel

But it would be inaccurate to suggest Kilmarnock did not create opportunities of their own.

The Guardian - Sport

A difference of a handful of points could make no tangible difference to the outcome of the in/out vote in the UK if one of the two sides has a clear lead (as most polls currently suggest).

The Guardian

Early reports suggest that in his testimony to a congressional committee today, General David Petraeus will claim that the Iranians assisted the Mahdi Army militia to fight the forces of Iraqi prime minister Nuri al-Maliki in the recent week-long battle in Basra.

The Guardian - Opinion

I suggest that sounds rather optimistic, and mention starting again from scratch with, for example, our passport system.

The Guardian

At the very least, I suggest to him, a British exit would create no end of economic turbulence.

The Guardian

I suggest this book to boys who need something to relate to.

The Guardian

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "suggest", consider the level of directness required. For formal settings, "propose" or "recommend" may be more appropriate, while "hint" or "imply" can add subtlety.

Common error

Avoid using "suggest" repeatedly in formal documents. Vary your vocabulary with alternatives like "propose", "recommend", or "advise" to maintain a professional tone.

Linguistic Context

The primary grammatical function of "suggest" is that of a verb. It is used to introduce ideas, recommendations, or possibilities. Ludwig AI confirms its correct usage in written English, serving to offer a course of action or indicate a certain conclusion based on available information.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

100%

Less common in

Formal & Business

0%

Science

0%

Science

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "suggest" is a versatile verb used to introduce ideas or recommendations in a neutral tone. Ludwig AI confirms its suitability for written English, emphasizing its role in offering solutions or hinting at possibilities. While highly frequent in News & Media, understanding alternatives like "recommend" or "propose" and avoiding overuse in formal writing can enhance clarity and professionalism. By considering the nuances of "suggest" and its context, you can effectively communicate ideas and guide others towards informed decisions.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

Propose

A more direct way to introduce an idea or plan.

Recommend

Implies endorsement or approval of something.

Advise

Offers guidance based on expertise or knowledge.

Put forward

To present an idea or plan for consideration.

Offer

Presenting something for acceptance or rejection.

Intimate

Subtly imply something.

Hint

To give a subtle indication or suggestion.

Imply

Indicate the truth or existence of (something) by suggestion rather than explicit statement.

Insinuate

Suggest or hint (something bad or reprehensible) in an indirect and unpleasant way.

Allude to

To mention something indirectly or casually.

FAQs

How can I use "suggest" in a sentence?

You can use "suggest" to introduce an idea, recommendation, or possibility. For example, "I suggest we review the data again" or "The evidence suggests a different conclusion."

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

"Suggest" is a more general term for putting forward an idea, while "recommend" implies a stronger endorsement or approval.

Which is more formal, "suggest" or "propose"?

Propose is generally considered more formal than "suggest", often used in business or academic contexts.

What can I say instead of "I suggest"?

Depending on the context, you can use alternatives like "I "recommend"", "I "propose"", "I "advise"", or "I put forward".