advise
verb (transitive)
UK/ədˈvaɪz/US/ədˈvaɪz/
to offer suggestions, guidance, or recommendations concerning prudent future action
Example Sentences
Her doctor advised her to reduce stress and exercise regularly.
I strongly advise you to review the terms of the agreement carefully before signing.
The consultant advised the company on its growth strategy.
Teachers often advise parents to read with their children every day.
Experts advise caution when making large financial decisions.
The lawyer advised him to gather all relevant documents, speak honestly about the circumstances, and follow legal procedures to ensure the best outcome.
The board of directors advised the team to reassess their market approach and explore alternative revenue streams for sustainable growth.
She will advise you on the best practices to maintain a healthy work-life balance in a demanding job environment.
Thesaurus
Synonyms
Antonyms
How to Use
Offer guidance or suggestions to help someone make decisions or take action.Use “advise” when you want to recommend or propose a course of action to someone. In formal or professional settings, it usually suggests a thoughtful recommendation rooted in expertise or authority. For example, a consultant might say, “I advise using this new software to streamline operations,” indicating that they have carefully assessed the situation and believe this option is optimal. In casual everyday exchanges, you might say, “I’d advise you to rest if you’re feeling ill,” to emphasize concern for the person’s well-being. The word “advise” carries a sense of gentle direction rather than command, leaving the final decision to the individual but providing them with helpful insight. You can use “advise” in writing to offer structured counsel; for instance, “Management advises employees to complete mandatory training by the deadline,” which underscores an official recommendation. When using “advise,” be mindful of both tone and context: it often connotes an informed opinion or professional suggestion, rather than a casual statement. By framing your advice politely—saying “I would advise…”—you maintain a respectful stance while still making your perspective clear. Whether you’re giving personal tips, legal suggestions, or professional guidance, “advise” highlights that you’re acting in the recipient’s best interests and encouraging them toward a wise decision.
Alternatives
Several synonyms can substitute for “advise,” each with its own nuance. “Recommend” often carries a softer tone, suggesting a thoughtful but optional direction. “Counsel” usually implies professional or expert guidance, particularly in legal or therapeutic contexts. “Suggest” is more casual, allowing for an idea without sounding insistent, making it suitable for friendly advice or simple recommendations. “Urge” communicates greater urgency, indicating that following the recommendation is highly important or time-sensitive. “Propose” frames the guidance as a possible plan of action, often used in formal presentations or discussions. “Encourage” strikes a supportive note, highlighting positivity and reassurance. By choosing the right alternative, you can match the tone and weight of your guidance to the circumstances at hand. For instance, you might “suggest” a friend try a new restaurant if they’re looking for dinner ideas, but “urge” them to seek medical help if you believe they’re seriously unwell. Each term adjusts the degree of emphasis and formality, so weighing both context and intent will help you pick a word that best delivers the meaning and mood you wish to convey.
Writing
When writing with “advise,” focus on clarity and purpose. If your goal is to guide your reader, establish why your viewpoint carries merit—maybe it’s based on evidence, expertise, or firsthand experience. Phrases like “It is advisable to…” or “I strongly advise that you…” make the recommendation explicit, helping readers recognize the difference between a casual opinion and a well-considered direction. Make sure your advice addresses the audience’s concerns: pinpoint the problem they might face and how your guidance helps solve it. In professional documents such as policy statements or reports, “advise” can convey official recommendations, ensuring that readers understand the seriousness of following (or ignoring) this counsel. Meanwhile, in persuasive essays or op-eds, “advise” may help you shape public perception by presenting measured proposals. Always maintain an appropriate level of respect and tact, acknowledging that your audience has the final say. Connecting any recommendations to data, reputable sources, or examples further strengthens your writing, demonstrating that your advice is rooted in careful thinking. By using “advise” purposefully and presenting logical, well-supported arguments, you enhance the authority and impact of your text while still respecting your reader’s autonomy to choose their own path.
Casual Conversation
In everyday conversation, “advise” can feel a bit more formal than words like “recommend” or “suggest,” but it still works well when you want to show genuine concern or thoughtful consideration for someone’s situation. For instance, you might say, “I’d advise staying indoors if the weather’s this bad,” to express a caring, somewhat serious caution. If a friend is facing a personal dilemma—perhaps they can’t decide whether to accept a job offer in a new city—you might say, “I’d advise listing the pros and cons before making a final choice.” This phrasing signals that you’re not just tossing out an offhand opinion; you’ve given some thought to their circumstances. People often appreciate this extra level of attention and sincerity, as it implies you’re looking out for their best interests. That said, balance is key; overusing “advise” in casual settings could sound overly formal or even patronizing. Mix it with friendlier phrasing or humor—“If you want my two cents, I’d advise giving it a shot!”—to keep the tone light and approachable. Ultimately, “advise” remains a helpful word for those occasions when you want to offer care, consideration, and insight without being pushy or overbearing in your everyday conversations.
Etymology
The word “advise” has its roots in Middle English, influenced by the Anglo-French term “aviser,” which in turn comes from Latin components meaning “to look at” or “to consider.” Early forms like “avisen” captured the idea of observing a situation carefully before giving an opinion or recommendation. Over time, “advise” evolved in both spelling and usage, paralleling shifts in legal, social, and literary contexts that placed greater emphasis on thoughtful guidance. In medieval courts and ecclesiastical settings, those with knowledge or authority were called upon to “advise” rulers or clergy on matters of law, governance, and ethics. This historical backdrop created a lasting association between “advise” and informed, responsible counsel, a connotation that endures today. Whether it’s lawyers advising clients, experts advising policymakers, or friends advising one another on life decisions, the term preserves its original essence of offering insight rooted in observation and consideration. This etymological journey underscores a timeless human need for trusted counsel, reminding us of the thoughtful examination that goes into the simple act of saying, “I advise you to….”