A2verb1K

Suggest

UK /["/səˈdʒest/","/səˈdʒests/","/səˈdʒestɪd/","/səˈdʒestɪŋ/"]/US /["/səˈdʒest//səɡˈdʒest/","/səˈdʒests//səɡˈdʒests/","/səˈdʒestɪd//səɡˈdʒestɪd/","/səˈdʒestɪŋ//səɡˈdʒestɪŋ/"]/

Definition

to put forward an idea or a plan for other people to think about

In simple words: To show an idea or recommendation to someone

Examples

  • I would like to suggest a new approach to the project.
  • Could you suggest some good restaurants in the area?
  • She suggested that we leave early to avoid traffic.
  • The idea he suggested was very innovative.
  • The weather report suggests that it might rain tomorrow.
  • The design of the logo suggests a modern brand.

Usage notes

Common in suggestions and advice. Suitable in most contexts, from casual conversations to professional settings. Avoid using in very formal writing, opt for 'propose' instead.

Grammar pattern

suggest + object

Memory hint

Think of 'suggest' as 'Seggest' — like guiding someone in a mini search.

Collocations

  • highly
  • strongly
  • tentatively
  • seem reasonable to
  • be far-fetched to
  • seem far-fetched to
  • as
  • for
  • to
  • can I suggest…
  • I suggest…
  • I would suggest…
  • certainly
  • clearly
  • strongly
  • seem to
  • be meant to
  • highly
  • strongly
  • tentatively
  • seem reasonable to
  • be far-fetched to
  • seem far-fetched to
  • as
  • for
  • to
  • can I suggest…
  • I suggest…
  • I would suggest…

Synonyms

  • recommend
  • indicate

Antonyms

  • discourage
  • dissuade

Common mistakes

  • 'Suggesting to' someone instead of 'suggesting that' someone do something.
  • Using 'suggest' with a gerund instead of a noun clause.
  • Confusing 'suggest' with 'recommend'.