suggest
v.-
1 to propose an idea (v.) A2 Elementaryto mention an idea or a plan for someone else to think about.
to put forward a plan, idea, or candidate for consideration or action.
ExampleI suggest taking the train because the traffic is very heavy today.
ExampleThe consultant suggested that the board restructure the department to improve internal communication and reduce overhead costs.
UsageOften followed by a gerund (suggest doing) or a 'that' clause (suggest that he do).
PitfallHe suggested me to go to the doctor.He suggested that I go to the doctor.The verb 'suggest' cannot be followed by an object + infinitive. Use a 'that' clause or a gerund instead.
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2 to indicate or imply (v.) B1 Intermediateto show that something is likely true without saying it in a direct way.
to communicate a fact or state of affairs indirectly; to serve as evidence for a particular conclusion.
ExampleThe dark clouds suggest that it might rain later this afternoon.
ExamplePreliminary data from the study suggest a strong correlation between sleep quality and cognitive performance in older adults.
UsageUsually takes a non-human subject like 'evidence', 'data', or 'research'.
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3 to bring to mind (v.) B2 Upper Intermediateto make you think of something else because of a similarity.
to evoke a mental image or idea through association or resemblance.
ExampleThe smell of the sea always suggests happy childhood holidays to me.
ExampleThe melody's haunting quality suggests the vast, empty landscapes of the composer's northern homeland.
Coined based on Latin suggestus, perfect passive participle of suggerō (“bring up, bring under, lay beneath, furnish, supply, excite, advise, suggest”, verb), from sub (“from below, under”) + gerō (“bear, carry”, verb).
- Verbsuggest
- Nounsuggestion
- Adjectivesuggestive