suggested that

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "suggested that" is correct and usable in written English.
You can use it when you are suggesting something, for example: "She suggested that we have a picnic in the park."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Formal & Business

Wiki

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

What fool suggested that?

Independent

"Somebody had suggested that name," he said.

The New York Times

Security suggested that was a bad idea.

TechCrunch

I suggested that this was juvenile.

The New Yorker

No correctional officer has suggested that".

The New Yorker

Someone suggested that Hooks try Tinder.

The New Yorker

Vieira has suggested that Blanc should resign.

The New York Times - Sports

The school suggested that she withdraw.

The New Yorker

(Brett Baier suggested that he hadn't).

The New Yorker

He suggested that they chargerfor their performances.

The New Yorker

Somebody suggested that he sounded deflated.

The New York Times - Sports

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "suggested that", ensure the verb in the 'that' clause is in the base form (subjunctive mood) if referring to a recommendation or proposal. For example: "He suggested that she apply for the job."

Common error

Avoid using modal verbs (should, would, could) unnecessarily after "suggested that" when the subjunctive mood is appropriate. Instead of "He suggested that she should apply", use "He suggested that she apply".

Linguistic Context

The phrase "suggested that" functions as a reporting verb introducing a subordinate clause that expresses a suggestion, recommendation, or proposal. Ludwig's examples show it being used to convey ideas, advice, and possible courses of action.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

60%

Science

15%

Formal & Business

10%

Less common in

Wiki

10%

Encyclopedias

3%

Reference

2%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The phrase "suggested that" is a versatile and commonly used construction to introduce a suggestion, recommendation, or proposal. As Ludwig AI confirms, it is grammatically correct. Its frequency, as seen in the numerous examples, makes it a valuable tool in both formal and informal communication. It is especially prevalent in "News & Media". When using "suggested that", it's important to ensure the verb in the following clause is in the base form (subjunctive mood) for recommendations. Alternatives such as "proposed that" or "recommended that" can be used for more formal contexts.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

proposed that

Uses a more formal verb, "proposed", implying a formal suggestion or plan.

recommended that

Specifies the suggestion as a recommendation, implying endorsement or advice.

indicated that

Implies that something was shown or pointed out, often more subtle than a direct suggestion.

implied that

Suggests something indirectly, without explicitly stating it.

hinted that

Conveys a subtle suggestion or clue.

put forward the idea that

Emphasizes the act of introducing a concept or idea for consideration.

advanced the theory that

Presents a more formal or academic suggestion, often involving a theory or hypothesis.

offered the opinion that

Highlights that the suggestion is based on personal belief or judgment.

intimated that

Suggests something delicately or subtly, often avoiding directness.

posited that

Introduces a suggestion as a fundamental assumption or principle, often in academic or philosophical contexts.

FAQs

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

"Suggested that" is used to report a suggestion. For example, "The doctor "suggested that" I get more rest."

What's a more formal alternative to "suggested that"?

For a more formal tone, consider using "proposed that" or "recommended that" instead of "suggested that".

Is it correct to say "suggested me that"?

No, the correct construction is "suggested that" or "suggested to me". "Suggested me that" is grammatically incorrect.

What's the difference between "suggested that" and "implied that"?

"Suggested that" indicates a direct suggestion, while "implied that" indicates an indirect or subtle suggestion. "Suggested that" is more explicit than "implied that".