What is suggest? Pronunciation and usage 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

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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?