Advice vs. Suggestion: What's the Difference?
Edited by Sumera Saeed || By Sawaira Riaz || Published on October 11, 2023
Advice is guidance based on expertise, while a suggestion is a general proposal or idea.
Key Differences
Advice and Suggestion are terms that refer to recommendations or ideas given to someone. They are often used interchangeably, but they possess distinct connotations and uses.
Sawaira Riaz
Oct 11, 2023
Advice typically emanates from one's experience, knowledge, or expertise on a subject. When people give advice, they are often guiding someone based on what they believe is the best course of action.
Sawaira Riaz
Oct 11, 2023
In contrast, a suggestion is a more general proposal or idea that one thinks might be suitable. It doesn't necessarily stem from expertise but is more of a recommendation that someone can consider.
Sawaira Riaz
Oct 11, 2023
Another distinguishing factor is the level of assertiveness. Advice usually carries more weight and is often seen as something to be followed. It's more directive in nature.
Janet White
Oct 11, 2023
On the other hand, a suggestion is less assertive. It's more about offering an idea for consideration, without necessarily pushing for its adoption.
Sara Rehman
Oct 11, 2023
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Comparison Chart
Nature
Guidance on the best course of action
A possible course of action for consideration
Sawaira Riaz
Oct 11, 2023
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Advice and Suggestion Definitions
Advice
Advice refers to recommendations about actions.
The doctor's advice was to rest for a week.
Aimie Carlson
Oct 09, 2023
Suggestion
Suggestion refers to mentioning something for consideration.
His suggestion to try the seafood was a good one.
Sara Rehman
Oct 09, 2023
Advice
Advice is guidance offered based on experience.
She gave me sound advice on managing finances.
Sawaira Riaz
Oct 09, 2023
Suggestion
Suggestion can be a subtle indication.
There's a suggestion of mint in this dish.
Sara Rehman
Oct 09, 2023
Advice
Advice is information given to guide decisions.
His investment advice has always been reliable.
Sawaira Riaz
Oct 09, 2023
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Suggestion
Suggestion is an idea put forward without insistence.
I'm open to any suggestions for the weekend trip.
Aimie Carlson
Oct 09, 2023
Advice
Advice typically derives from expertise.
The lawyer provided legal advice on the matter.
Aimie Carlson
Oct 09, 2023
Suggestion
A suggestion is a proposed idea or plan.
She made a suggestion to visit the new museum.
Sawaira Riaz
Oct 09, 2023
Advice
Advice is often seen as authoritative.
The elder's advice was respected in the community.
Sawaira Riaz
Oct 09, 2023
Advice
Opinion about what could or should be done about a situation or problem; counsel.
Sawaira Riaz
Oct 07, 2023
Advice
Often advices Information communicated; news
Advices from an ambassador.
Sawaira Riaz
Oct 07, 2023
Suggestion
The sequential process by which one thought or mental image leads to another.
Sawaira Riaz
Oct 07, 2023
Advice
(uncountable) An opinion offered to guide behavior in an effort to be helpful.
She was offered various pieces of advice on what to do with her new-found wealth.
On the advice of her doctor, Mary cut down on her carbohydrates.
I have some useful advice to give you.
Sushil never took the advice of his parents, but still became rich.
Sawaira Riaz
Oct 07, 2023
Suggestion
A psychological process by which an idea is induced in or adopted by another without argument, command, or coercion.
Sawaira Riaz
Oct 07, 2023
Suggestion
A hint or trace
Just a suggestion of makeup.
The first suggestion of trouble ahead.
Sawaira Riaz
Oct 07, 2023
Advice
(countable) In language about financial transactions executed by formal documents, an advisory document.
An advice of an incoming settlement payment order may be given to an off-line receiving bank.
Sawaira Riaz
Oct 07, 2023
Suggestion
(countable) Something suggested (with subsequent adposition being for)
I have a small suggestion for fixing this: try lifting the left side up a bit.
Make a suggestion
Traffic signs seem to be more of a suggestion than an order.
Sawaira Riaz
Oct 07, 2023
Advice
(uncountable) In commercial language, information communicated by letter; used chiefly in reference to drafts or bills of exchange
A letter of advice
Sawaira Riaz
Oct 07, 2023
Suggestion
(uncountable) The act of suggesting.
Suggestion often works better than explicit demand.
Sawaira Riaz
Oct 07, 2023
Advice
A communication providing information, such as how an uncertain area of law might apply to possible future actions
An advice issued by a Monitoring Committee could be applicable in a Dutch court
Sawaira Riaz
Oct 07, 2023
Suggestion
Something implied, which the mind is liable to take as fact.
He’s somehow picked up the suggestion that I like peanuts.
Sawaira Riaz
Oct 07, 2023
Suggestion
The act of exercising control over a hypnotised subject by communicating some belief or impulse by means of words or gestures; the idea so suggested.
Sawaira Riaz
Oct 07, 2023
Suggestion
Information, insinuation, speculation, as opposed to a sworn testimony and evidence.
Sawaira Riaz
Oct 07, 2023
Advice
In aspect-oriented programming, the code whose execution is triggered when a join point is reached.
Sawaira Riaz
Oct 07, 2023
Suggestion
That which is suggested; an intimation; an insinuation; a hint; a different proposal or mention; also, formerly, a secret incitement; temptation.
Why do I yield to that suggestion?
Sawaira Riaz
Oct 07, 2023
Advice
An opinion recommended or offered, as worthy to be followed; counsel.
We may give advice, but we can not give conduct.
Sawaira Riaz
Oct 07, 2023
Advice
Deliberate consideration; knowledge.
How shall I dote on her with more advice,That thus without advice begin to love her?
Sawaira Riaz
Oct 07, 2023
Suggestion
Information without oath; an entry of a material fact or circumstance on the record for the information of the court, at the death or insolvency of a party.
Sawaira Riaz
Oct 07, 2023
Advice
Information or notice given; intelligence; as, late advices from France; - commonly in the plural.
Sawaira Riaz
Oct 07, 2023
Suggestion
The act or power of originating or recalling ideas or relations, distinguished as original and relative; - a term much used by Scottish metaphysicians from Hutcherson to Thomas Brown.
Sawaira Riaz
Oct 07, 2023
Suggestion
The control of the mind of an hypnotic subject by ideas in the mind of the hypnotizer.
Willing to wound, and yet afraid to strike,Just hint a fault, and hesitate dislike.
Arthur, whom they say is killed to-nightOn your suggestion.
Sawaira Riaz
Oct 07, 2023
Suggestion
A proposal offered for acceptance or rejection;
It was a suggestion we couldn't refuse
Sawaira Riaz
Oct 07, 2023
Suggestion
A just detectable amount;
He speaks French with a trace of an accent
Sawaira Riaz
Oct 07, 2023
Suggestion
The sequential mental process in which one thought leads to another by association
Sawaira Riaz
Oct 07, 2023
Suggestion
Suggestion is a hint or implication.
There's a suggestion of doubt in his voice.
Janet White
Oct 09, 2023
FAQs
Can a suggestion be authoritative?
A suggestion is typically less authoritative than advice, but it can be emphasized strongly based on context.
Sawaira Riaz
Oct 11, 2023
Is advice always based on expertise?
While advice often comes from expertise, it can also be based on personal experience or opinion.
Sawaira Riaz
Oct 11, 2023
Can a suggestion be given without any basis?
Yes, a suggestion can be a mere idea or proposal without any specific basis.
Janet White
Oct 11, 2023
Is "advice" countable or uncountable?
"Advice" is an uncountable noun in English.
Sawaira Riaz
Oct 11, 2023
Which is more informal: advice or suggestion?
"Suggestion" is generally more informal and less assertive than "advice."
Sawaira Riaz
Oct 11, 2023
Can a suggestion come from experience?
Yes, suggestions can come from experience, though they are less directive than advice.
Harlon Moss
Oct 11, 2023
Which is more casual in conversation?
"Suggestion" is typically more casual and open-ended than "advice."
Harlon Moss
Oct 11, 2023
How is advice typically conveyed?
Advice is often conveyed with phrases like "I advise you to..." or "My advice is..."
Sara Rehman
Oct 11, 2023
Can I use "suggestions" in the plural form?
Yes, "suggestion" is countable and can be pluralized.
Sara Rehman
Oct 11, 2023
Is advice always solicited?
Not always. While advice can be sought, unsolicited advice is also common.
Aimie Carlson
Oct 11, 2023
Is advice always serious?
Not necessarily. While advice often deals with serious matters, it can also pertain to casual or everyday topics.
Janet White
Oct 11, 2023
Can advice be negative?
Yes, advice can be cautionary or recommend against certain actions.
Sawaira Riaz
Oct 11, 2023
Are there any synonyms for "advice"?
Yes, synonyms include guidance, counsel, and recommendation.
Sawaira Riaz
Oct 11, 2023
Are suggestions binding?
No, suggestions are recommendations and aren't typically binding.
Harlon Moss
Oct 11, 2023
Can you reject a suggestion?
Yes, suggestions are open-ended and can be accepted or rejected.
Sara Rehman
Oct 11, 2023
Which is more likely to be given in a professional setting?
In professional settings, both advice and suggestions can be given, but advice often carries more weight.
Sawaira Riaz
Oct 11, 2023
Can "suggestion" refer to a hint?
Yes, "suggestion" can also mean a hint or indirect indication.
Aimie Carlson
Oct 11, 2023
What's a common way to present a suggestion?
Phrases like "How about...?" or "You might consider..." are commonly used to present suggestions.
Janet White
Oct 11, 2023
Can advice be paid for?
Yes, professionals like lawyers or consultants often provide advice for a fee.
Janet White
Oct 11, 2023
Is a suggestion always actionable?
While suggestions often propose a course of action, they can also be general ideas or hints.
Sawaira Riaz
Oct 11, 2023
About Author
Written by
Sawaira RiazSawaira is a dedicated content editor at difference.wiki, where she meticulously refines articles to ensure clarity and accuracy. With a keen eye for detail, she upholds the site's commitment to delivering insightful and precise content.
Edited by
Sumera SaeedSumera is an experienced content writer and editor with a niche in comparative analysis. At Diffeence Wiki, she crafts clear and unbiased comparisons to guide readers in making informed decisions. With a dedication to thorough research and quality, Sumera's work stands out in the digital realm. Off the clock, she enjoys reading and exploring diverse cultures.
