What is suggest? Pronunciation and usage in English

suggest means . Learn how to pronounce and use suggest through vivid examples and easy-to-understand exercises.

Definition & pronunciation of suggest

suggestverb

/səˈdʒɛst/
Definition & pronunciation of suggest

Okay, let's break down how to pronounce "suggest." It's a tricky one for many learners! Here's a breakdown:

1. The Sounds:

  • "sug": This part is relatively straightforward. It sounds like "suh" – like in "sun."
  • "ject": This is where it gets a little tricky. It’s a combination of sounds:
    • "j": Pronounced like the "j" in "jump."
    • "uc": This is the tricky part! It's a combination of a short "u" sound (like in "cup") and a "c" sound. It's not a hard "c" like in "cat." It's a softer, almost muted "c" sound – more like the "ch" sound in "chair," but much shorter and quieter. Think of it as a quick, light "c" sound.
    • "t": A regular "t" sound.

2. Putting it Together:

The whole word is pronounced something like: "sə-JECT"

Here's a more detailed breakdown of the mouth movements:

  • Start with your tongue in a neutral position.
  • Say "suh" (as in "sun").
  • Quickly transition to the "j" sound (like in "jump").
  • Immediately follow that with the short, muted "c" sound (like a very brief "ch"). Your lips should be relaxed.
  • Finish with a "t" sound.

3. Emphasis and Stress:

The primary stress is on the first syllable: "SUG". The "ject" part is relatively unstressed.

4. Resources for Hearing It:

Tips for Practicing:

  • Slow down: Don't try to say it quickly at first. Focus on getting each sound right.
  • Break it down: Practice the "suh" and "ject" parts separately before putting them together.
  • Listen carefully: Pay attention to the subtle differences in sound.
  • Record yourself: Record yourself saying the word and compare it to a native speaker's pronunciation.

To help me give you even more targeted advice, could you tell me:

  • Are you having trouble with a specific part of the word (like the "ject" part)?

Usage and examples with the word suggest in English

Let's break down how to use the word "suggest" in English. It's a versatile word with a few different nuances. Here's a breakdown with examples:

1. To Offer a Recommendation or Idea:

  • Most Common Use: This is the primary way "suggest" is used. You're proposing something as a possible solution, plan, or course of action.
    • Example: "I suggest we order pizza for dinner." (Offering a choice)
    • Example: "My professor suggested I read this book for extra credit." (Offering advice)
    • Example: "He suggested a different route to avoid the traffic." (Proposing an alternative)

2. To Indicate Something Is Probable or Likely:

  • Passive Voice: "Suggest" can be used to indicate that something is likely or probable, often without stating the reason why. This is where you use it in the passive voice – "be suggested."
    • Example: "It is suggested that all employees attend the training session." (Meaning: It's likely that all employees should attend.)
    • Example: "Smoking is suggested to be harmful to your health." (Meaning: There's evidence that smoking is harmful.)
    • Example: "Higher interest rates are suggested by the economic forecast." (Meaning: The forecast indicates that rates are likely to rise.)

3. To Point Out or Indicate (Less Common):

  • Pointing out a detail: You can use "suggest" to subtly point out a detail or link.
    • Example: "The pattern of the stain suggests that someone spilled coffee on the rug." (Indicating the cause based on a visual clue)

Key Phrases & Variations:

  • Suggest to someone: "I suggested to him..." (Offering something directly to someone)
  • Suggest doing something: “I suggest doing your homework.” (Proposing an action)
  • Suggest that + clause: “I suggest that he apologize.” (Formal and precise way to offer a recommendation)
  • Suggesting: (The gerund form – can be used as a noun) “I have many suggestions for the party.”

Formal vs. Informal:

  • "Suggest" is generally considered relatively neutral in formality.
  • "Recommend" is often a more formal alternative, especially when offering advice. (Example: "I recommend this restaurant.")
  • "Propose" is even more formal and usually used for more significant ideas or plans. (Example: "We propose a new marketing strategy.”)

Here's a table summarizing the uses:

Usage Form Example Meaning
Recommendation suggest (active) "I suggest we go to the beach." Offering a choice
Probability is/are suggested (passive) "It is suggested that you arrive early." Something is likely to be true
Pointing out suggest "The evidence suggests he is guilty." A clue indicates something

To help me give you even more targeted advice, could you tell me:

  • What kind of context are you using "suggest" in? (e.g., writing an email, giving advice, describing a situation?)
  • Are there any specific examples you'd like me to analyze?

Synonyms for the word suggest

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