suggest using

USAGE SUMMARY

"suggest using" is correct and usable in written English.
You can use it to make a suggestion about what people should do. For example, "I suggest using a different method for analyzing the data."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Wiki

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

58 human-written examples

The instructions suggest using a roofing nail.

The New York Times

May I suggest using a Bic rollerball?

The Guardian - Lifestyle

I do not suggest using the ad network figures to make comparisons between the Internet giants.

The New York Times

If you can't find it, I'd suggest using the whole leaf frozen variety instead.

The Guardian - Lifestyle

May I suggest using Polybius with his torches to illustrate an article about outdated technology?

The New Yorker

When architects suggest using exposed concrete blocks, some clients prefer to dress up the look.

The New York Times

"I don't suggest using powder for a rash," I said, hoisting my youngest to my hip.

The New York Times

But the makers of eCool suggest using a garden drill to create the boozy grave.

The Guardian

"I would suggest using frozen baby lima beans if you don't want to peel favas," Mr. Schenk said.

The New York Times - Food

I suggest using migration policy as one tool to assist people in poor countries struck by natural disaster.

The Guardian

For people who want a leaner look, trainers suggest using a lower weight with more repetitions (15 to 20).

The New York Times

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When offering a suggestion, follow "suggest using" with a specific and actionable item. For instance, "I suggest using a project management tool to keep track of tasks."

Common error

While "suggest using" is versatile, it can sound less formal in highly professional or academic settings. Opt for alternatives like "recommend employing" or "advise utilizing" for a more polished tone.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "suggest using" functions as a verb phrase introducing a recommendation or advice. According to Ludwig, this construction is correct and usable in written English. It proposes a course of action, implying that the listener or reader should consider employing a specific method or tool.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

45%

Science

35%

Wiki

15%

Less common in

Formal & Business

3%

Encyclopedias

1%

Reference

1%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, the phrase "suggest using" is a versatile and grammatically sound way to offer advice or recommendations. As noted by Ludwig, it is correct and appropriate for general use. Its frequency across news, science, and wiki sources indicates its widespread acceptance. While "suggest using" serves well in many scenarios, remember to adjust the tone based on context; more formal alternatives like "recommend employing" may be preferable in professional settings. By understanding its function, purpose, and appropriate register, writers can effectively use "suggest using" to guide and influence their audience.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

recommend employing

Replaces "suggest" with "recommend" and "using" with "employing", indicating a more formal tone.

advise utilizing

Substitutes "suggest" with "advise" and "using" with "utilizing", adding a slightly more authoritative tone.

endorse the use of

Implies a stronger support for a particular method or tool.

would recommend that you use

Adds a conditional tone and specifies the target of the suggestion.

it is advisable to use

Focuses on the advisability of using something, rather than a direct suggestion.

propose the application of

Replaces the entire phrase with a more formal and structured suggestion.

consider implementing

Encourages consideration of a specific action, rather than a direct suggestion of use.

opt for utilizing

Implies a choice towards using a particular method or resource.

try leveraging

Suggests experimenting with a particular resource or method to gain an advantage.

think about applying

Less formal, prompting reflection on the application of something.

FAQs

How can I rephrase "suggest using" to sound more formal?

For a more formal tone, consider using phrases such as "recommend employing", "advise utilizing", or "propose the application of" depending on the context.

What are some less formal alternatives to "suggest using"?

Informal alternatives include "think about applying" or "try leveraging" when you want to sound more casual.

Is it grammatically correct to say "suggest to use" instead of "suggest using"?

While "suggest to use" might sound similar, "suggest using" is the grammatically preferred construction. "Suggest using" is a gerund phrase, which functions as a noun and is commonly used after the verb suggest.

When is it appropriate to use "suggest using" in writing?

"Suggest using" is appropriate across various writing styles, from news articles and blog posts to scientific papers. However, consider your audience and the overall tone, and opt for a more formal alternative like "endorse the use of" in more formal contexts.