English Reference
noun · adjective

advisory

n. · adj.
US /ædˈvaɪzɝi/ UK /ɐdvˈaɪzəɹˌi/ ad·vi·so·ry UK spelling advisories

  1. 01 B2 Upper Intermediate American English

    n.an official announcement that warns people about a problem, like bad weather or a travel risk.

    n.an official announcement or report issued by an authority to provide information or warning about a specific hazard.

    Simple

    The government issued a travel advisory because of the heavy snowstorm.

    In context

    The National Weather Service issued a dense fog advisory for the coastal counties, urging motorists to exercise extreme caution during the morning commute.

    Usage

    often used with specific modifiers like 'weather', 'travel', or 'security'

  2. 02 B2 Upper Intermediate Formal

    adj.having the power or duty to give advice rather than making final decisions.

    adj.having the power or function of giving advice; recommendatory rather than executive or mandatory.

    Simple

    She has an advisory role on the committee but she cannot vote.

    In context

    The board established an advisory council to provide expert guidance on environmental policy without granting them formal legislative power.

    Usage

    usually precedes the noun it modifies

  3. 03 C1 Advanced Formal

    adj.describing a document or message that gives suggestions or warnings.

    adj.containing or consisting of advice or warnings.

    Simple

    The bank sent an advisory letter to all customers about the new security rules.

    In context

    The department released an advisory memorandum detailing the potential risks associated with the new software update.

Usage advisory board · advisory committee

Lastly, Metro leads on “Sitting room only at pubs?” Photograph: The Guardian Why has Kemi Badenoch given a former neo-Nazi an advisory role?

The Guardian· 7 Aug 2026

I have worked with youth advisory boards that include children as young as 11 years old, and young adult advisory boards that include adults as old as 25.

The Conversation· 23 Jul 2026

From advise + -ory.

Etymology adapted from Wiktionary, available under CC BY-SA 4.0.

This entry
Level B2 · Upper Intermediate
Frequency Common
Updated