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B1 Noun #42 am häufigsten 13 Min. Lesezeit

suggestion

Top 42

At the A1 level, you can think of a 'suggestion' as a simple 'idea.' When you are with friends and you want to do something, you might have an idea. For example, 'Let's go to the park!' is a suggestion. You don't need to use the big word 'suggestion' yet; you can just say 'I have an idea.' At this level, you are learning how to ask for things and give simple options. You might hear a teacher say, 'Any ideas?' which is the same as 'Any suggestions?' The most important thing to know is that a suggestion is not a command. It is not 'You must do this.' It is 'Maybe we can do this.' It is a friendly way to talk to people. You can use it when you are choosing food, playing games, or deciding where to go. Even though 'suggestion' is a long word, the meaning is very simple: it is just one choice that you tell to another person. You will often use the word 'suggestion' with 'make.' You 'make' a suggestion. You can also 'have' a suggestion. For example: 'I have a suggestion. Let's eat pizza.' This is a very easy way to use the word. At A1, focus on the fact that it is a noun and it is something you share with others. It makes you sound polite and helpful. If someone gives you a suggestion, you can say 'Good idea!' or 'No, thank you.' This is the beginning of using the word in real life.

At the A2 level, you are starting to use more specific words for everyday actions. 'Suggestion' is a very useful word for making plans and giving advice to friends. You should know that 'suggestion' is a noun, and the verb is 'suggest.' For example, 'I suggest we go to the beach' (verb) and 'That is a good suggestion' (noun). At this level, you can use the word in sentences like 'Do you have any suggestions for a good book?' or 'Thank you for your suggestion.' You are also learning that suggestions are countable. You can have one suggestion, or you can have two suggestions. This is different from 'advice,' which you cannot count. If you want to be polite in English, using 'suggestion' is better than telling someone what to do. Instead of saying 'Go to the doctor,' you can say 'My suggestion is to go to the doctor.' This sounds much softer and more natural. You might also see this word on websites, like 'Suggestions for you' on a shopping site. This means the computer has ideas for things you might like to buy. At A2, you should practice using 'make a suggestion' in your speaking and writing. It is a great way to show that you can participate in a conversation and offer your own thoughts in a polite way.

As a B1 learner, you should be comfortable using 'suggestion' in both social and professional contexts. This is the level where you move beyond just 'having an idea' and start 'making constructive suggestions.' You should understand common phrases like 'at the suggestion of' and 'open to suggestions.' For example, 'We changed the plan at the suggestion of our manager.' This shows you understand how the word functions in a sentence to show who started an idea. You should also be aware of the difference between 'suggestion' and 'advice.' Remember that 'suggestion' is countable and often feels less 'heavy' than advice. In a business meeting, you might say, 'May I make a suggestion?' to introduce your idea politely. This is a key skill for B1 learners: using language to navigate social hierarchies. You should also start to recognize the second meaning of 'suggestion,' which is a 'hint' or 'trace.' For instance, 'There was a suggestion of a smile on his face.' While you might not use this in every conversation, being able to read or hear it and understand the meaning is important for reaching the next level. At B1, you are expected to use the word accurately with prepositions, such as 'suggestions for' (a purpose) or 'suggestions about' (a topic). Practice using these in your writing to sound more fluent and precise.

At the B2 level, you are expected to use 'suggestion' with a high degree of accuracy and nuance. You should be familiar with the subjunctive mood that often follows the word in formal contexts: 'The suggestion that he *be* fired was shocking.' While this is formal, knowing it helps you understand academic and professional texts. You should also be able to use a variety of adjectives to describe suggestions, such as 'tentative,' 'feasible,' 'provocative,' or 'unsolicited.' An 'unsolicited suggestion' is one that nobody asked for, which can sometimes be annoying! Understanding these nuances helps you describe social situations more effectively. At B2, you should also be comfortable with the 'hint/trace' meaning of the word. You might use it in a literary analysis or a descriptive essay: 'The author uses a suggestion of mystery to keep the reader engaged.' Furthermore, you should understand the 'power of suggestion' in psychology and how it is used in marketing and media. You are no longer just using the word to make plans; you are using it to discuss complex ideas about influence and perception. You should also be able to distinguish 'suggestion' from more formal synonyms like 'proposal' or 'motion.' In a formal meeting, you don't just 'make a suggestion'; you might 'put forward a motion.' Being able to choose the right word for the level of formality is a hallmark of the B2 level.

At the C1 level, your use of 'suggestion' should be sophisticated and context-aware. You should understand the subtle implications of the word in different registers. For example, in a legal or journalistic context, 'the suggestion of impropriety' is a very serious phrase that implies someone might have done something wrong, even if there is no proof yet. You should be able to use the word to discuss abstract concepts, such as 'the suggestion of form' in abstract art, where the artist doesn't draw a clear object but gives the viewer enough clues to imagine one. Your vocabulary should include related terms like 'suggestibility' (how easily someone is influenced) and 'suggestive' (and its various connotations). You should also be able to use the word in complex grammatical structures effortlessly, such as 'It was at his father's suggestion that he eventually decided to pursue a career in law.' This level of precision shows that you can handle the 'heavy lifting' of the English language. You should also be aware of the historical and etymological roots of the word, which come from the Latin 'suggerere' (to bring under or to supply). This helps you understand why the word carries a sense of 'putting an idea under someone's consideration.' At C1, you are expected to use 'suggestion' not just as a noun, but as a tool for nuanced expression in both high-level academic writing and complex social interactions.

At the C2 level, you have a near-native command of 'suggestion' and can use it with absolute precision and stylistic flair. You understand the most delicate shades of meaning, such as the difference between a 'suggestion' and an 'intimation' or an 'insinuation.' You can use the word to describe the most subtle phenomena: 'The wine had a fleeting suggestion of forest floor and dried violets.' In this context, the word is used to capture a sensory experience that is almost beyond words. You are also aware of the word's role in the history of ideas, such as the 'power of suggestion' in the development of modern psychology and hypnosis. You can use the word in highly formal, archaic, or specialized contexts without hesitation. For example, you might discuss 'the suggestion of a motive' in a complex criminal trial, where the word carries significant weight in building a case. Your mastery of the subjunctive mood and other advanced grammatical structures associated with the word is perfect. You can also play with the word's various meanings in creative writing, using it to create ambiguity or subtext. At C2, 'suggestion' is more than just a word; it is a versatile instrument that you can play with total control, whether you are writing a technical report, a philosophical treatise, or a piece of literary fiction. You understand that sometimes, the most powerful thing you can do is not to state something directly, but to leave it as a mere suggestion.

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suggestion in 30 Sekunden

A suggestion is a polite way to offer an idea or a plan for others to consider, rather than giving a direct order.
It is a countable noun, meaning you can have one suggestion or many suggestions, unlike the uncountable word 'advice'.
Beyond ideas, it can mean a 'hint' or 'trace' of something, like a suggestion of spice in a meal or a suggestion of a smile.
Commonly used in phrases like 'make a suggestion', 'at the suggestion of', and 'open to suggestions' in both casual and formal English.

The word suggestion is a versatile noun that primarily refers to an idea, a plan, or a possibility that is put forward for someone else to think about. Unlike a command or a demand, a suggestion is inherently optional; it invites collaboration and consideration rather than immediate obedience. In daily life, we use suggestions to navigate social choices, such as where to eat or what movie to watch, but the word also carries a more subtle, almost artistic meaning. It can refer to a slight trace, a hint, or a small amount of something that isn't explicitly stated but is nonetheless present. For instance, a chef might add a 'suggestion of garlic' to a dish, meaning the flavor is barely there but enhances the overall experience. Understanding this word requires recognizing the balance between being helpful and being indirect. In professional environments, offering a suggestion is a way to show initiative without overstepping one's authority. It is a tool for soft power, allowing individuals to influence outcomes through persuasion rather than force. Whether you are brainstorming in a boardroom or suggesting a weekend trip to a friend, the word encapsulates the act of planting a seed in someone else's mind and waiting to see if it grows.

The Collaborative Aspect: Suggestions are the lifeblood of teamwork. They represent the transition from individual thought to collective action. When you make a suggestion, you are offering a piece of your perspective to the group.

Could I make a small suggestion regarding the new office layout?

Beyond the literal meaning of 'an idea,' the word is deeply rooted in the concept of influence. In psychology, 'suggestion' refers to the process by which one person guides the thoughts, feelings, or behavior of another. This can be as simple as a leading question or as complex as hypnotic suggestion. In this context, the word moves away from being a mere 'option' and becomes a mechanism of mental influence. However, in common B1-level English, you will mostly encounter it in the context of advice and proposals. It is important to distinguish it from 'advice,' which is often seen as more authoritative or based on expertise. A suggestion is often more tentative. You might say, 'I have a suggestion,' when you are unsure if your idea is the best one, but you want to contribute to the conversation. This tentativeness is what makes the word so useful in polite English conversation, as it avoids sounding bossy or arrogant.

The Nuance of 'Hint': In literature and art, a suggestion is a 'hint' or 'trace.' If a painting has a 'suggestion of sadness,' it doesn't show someone crying, but perhaps the colors and shadows evoke that feeling in the viewer.

There was just a suggestion of a smile on her face as she read the letter.

In summary, 'suggestion' is a word that bridges the gap between the concrete and the abstract. It is a noun that describes the act of proposing an idea while also describing the subtle presence of a quality. Whether you are dealing with a 'helpful suggestion' from a mentor or the 'suggestion of a breeze' on a hot day, the word implies something that is offered gently, waiting to be noticed or accepted. It is a fundamental part of social interaction, allowing for the exchange of thoughts without the friction of commands.

Using the word suggestion correctly involves understanding its grammatical patterns and common collocations. As a countable noun, it can be singular or plural. You can 'make a suggestion,' 'offer a suggestion,' or 'follow a suggestion.' One of the most common structures is 'suggestion for [something]' or 'suggestion that [clause].' For example, 'She made a suggestion for the party' or 'His suggestion that we leave early was ignored.' Notice how the word acts as a bridge between the speaker's intent and the proposed action. In formal writing, you might see the phrase 'at the suggestion of,' which indicates who originated the idea. For instance, 'The meeting was held at the suggestion of the CEO.' This adds a layer of professional attribution to the sentence.

Common Verb Pairings: The most frequent verb used with suggestion is 'make.' You don't 'do' a suggestion; you 'make' one. Other verbs include 'accept,' 'reject,' 'ignore,' 'welcome,' and 'consider.'

We are open to any suggestions you might have for improving our customer service.

When using 'suggestion' to mean a 'trace' or 'hint,' it is often followed by the preposition 'of.' You might describe a room as having a 'suggestion of perfume' or a wine as having a 'suggestion of oak.' In these cases, the word is usually singular and preceded by the indefinite article 'a.' This usage is more common in descriptive or creative writing than in everyday conversation. It's a sophisticated way to describe something that is barely perceptible. If you say someone has a 'suggestion of an accent,' you mean they sound almost like a native speaker, but there is a tiny, unidentifiable difference in their speech. This nuance is vital for learners aiming for B2 or C1 levels, as it demonstrates a grasp of the word's more abstract applications.

Adjective Modifiers: Suggestions are often described as 'helpful,' 'practical,' 'constructive,' 'useful,' or 'tentative.' These adjectives help clarify the nature of the idea being offered.

Thank you for your constructive suggestion; it really helped us solve the problem.

Finally, consider the negative forms. You can 'dismiss a suggestion' or 'disregard a suggestion.' In a sentence like 'There is no suggestion that he was involved in the crime,' the word takes on a slightly different meaning, closer to 'insinuation' or 'allegation.' Here, it means there is no evidence or hint pointing toward a specific conclusion. This shows how 'suggestion' can move from a helpful tip to a legal or journalistic term. Mastering these patterns allows you to use 'suggestion' with confidence in both casual chats and formal reports.

In the real world, suggestion is everywhere. If you walk into a modern restaurant, the server might say, 'May I make a suggestion? Our specials today are excellent.' Here, it’s a polite sales technique. In an office, you’ll see 'suggestion boxes'—physical or digital spaces where employees can leave anonymous ideas for improvement. In these contexts, the word represents a democratic approach to management, where everyone’s voice has the potential to be heard. You’ll also hear it frequently in collaborative creative processes, like film directing or music production. A director might say to an actor, 'I have a suggestion for this scene; try playing it with more hesitation.' It’s a way of guiding the creative output without being dictatorial.

In the Workplace: The 'suggestion box' is a classic corporate trope. Even if it's now an email alias, the concept remains: a formal channel for bottom-up communication.

The management team is looking for suggestions on how to reduce our carbon footprint.

You will also encounter 'suggestion' in the world of technology. Think about 'search suggestions' on Google or 'auto-suggestions' on your smartphone keyboard. These are algorithmic predictions of what you might want to type next. In this digital context, a suggestion is a data-driven guess designed to save you time. Similarly, Netflix or Spotify provide 'recommendations,' which are essentially personalized suggestions based on your past behavior. This usage highlights the word's connection to the future—a suggestion is always about what *could* happen or what *might* be chosen next. It is a word that looks forward, offering a path that the user can choose to follow or ignore.

In Social Settings: When friends are deciding on plans, the phrase 'Any suggestions?' is the standard way to open the floor for ideas. It is inclusive and low-pressure.

'I'm bored.' 'Well, do you have any suggestions for what we could do?'

Lastly, in the medical and psychological fields, 'suggestion' is a technical term. You might hear about the 'power of suggestion,' which explains how people can experience real physical or emotional changes simply because they expect to. For example, if someone suggests that a room is getting colder, you might actually start to feel a chill. This demonstrates the profound link between language and perception. Whether it's a waiter suggesting a dessert or a doctor suggesting a lifestyle change, the word is a constant presence in how we influence and are influenced by the world around us.

One of the most frequent errors learners make with suggestion is confusing it with the word 'advice.' While they are similar, they have different grammatical rules. 'Advice' is uncountable, meaning you cannot say 'an advice' or 'advices.' However, 'suggestion' is countable. You can say 'a suggestion' or 'many suggestions.' A common mistake is saying, 'He gave me a good suggestion,' and then trying to use 'advice' the same way: 'He gave me a good advice' (Incorrect). Remember: suggestions are individual items you can count, while advice is a general mass of helpful information. Another mistake is using the wrong verb. Learners often say 'do a suggestion' or 'give a suggestion.' While 'give' is acceptable, 'make' is the most natural collocation in English. 'I want to make a suggestion' sounds much more native than 'I want to give a suggestion.'

Suggestion vs. Advice: Suggestion = Countable (a suggestion, two suggestions). Advice = Uncountable (some advice, a piece of advice). Never add an 's' to advice!

Incorrect: He gave me three advices.
Correct: He gave me three suggestions.

Another common pitfall involves the preposition that follows the word. Learners often use 'suggestion of' when they mean 'suggestion for.' If you are proposing an idea for a project, it is a 'suggestion for the project.' If you are describing a small amount of something, it is a 'suggestion of [something].' For example, 'a suggestion of salt' (a tiny bit of salt) versus 'a suggestion for the menu' (an idea for what to serve). Using 'of' when you mean 'for' can change the meaning of your sentence entirely. Additionally, be careful with the word 'suggestive.' While 'suggestion' is neutral or positive, 'suggestive' often has a sexual or provocative connotation in English. If you want to say an idea is 'full of suggestions,' do not say the idea is 'suggestive,' as this might be misunderstood!

Pronunciation Trap: The 'g' in suggestion is often pronounced like a 'j' sound (/səˈdʒestʃən/). Some learners try to pronounce it with a hard 'g' like in 'get,' which is incorrect.

The suggestion that we cancel the meeting was a good one.

Finally, watch out for the 'that' clause structure. In formal English, after 'suggestion that,' we use the subjunctive mood. This means the verb doesn't change for 'he,' 'she,' or 'it.' For example: 'My suggestion is that he *be* invited' (not 'is invited'). While many native speakers ignore this in casual speech, using it correctly in writing will make your English sound much more advanced. Avoid saying 'My suggestion is for him to go' in very formal contexts; 'My suggestion is that he go' is the preferred academic style. By keeping these distinctions in mind, you can avoid the most common errors and use 'suggestion' like a pro.

While suggestion is a great all-purpose word, English offers many alternatives that can make your speech more precise. 'Proposal' is a common synonym, but it is much more formal. A proposal is usually a structured, written document or a serious offer, like a 'business proposal' or a 'marriage proposal.' You wouldn't usually 'propose' what to have for lunch; you would 'suggest' it. On the other hand, 'tip' is much more informal. A tip is a small, practical piece of advice, often based on personal experience. 'Can you give me a tip for the exam?' is more common than 'Can you give me a suggestion for the exam?' Understanding these levels of formality helps you choose the right word for the right situation.

Suggestion vs. Proposal: Suggestion: Informal to neutral, often spoken. Proposal: Formal, often written, requires a formal decision or vote.

The board of directors is reviewing the proposal for the new factory.

Another set of similar words includes 'hint' and 'clue.' These are best used when 'suggestion' means a small amount or a sign of something. A 'hint of cinnamon' is almost the same as a 'suggestion of cinnamon,' but 'hint' is more common in cooking. A 'clue' is specifically something that helps solve a mystery or problem. If you say 'There was a suggestion of guilt in his eyes,' you are being poetic. If you say 'There was a clue to his guilt,' you are being literal and investigative. 'Recommendation' is another strong alternative, specifically when you are praising something based on your own positive experience. You 'recommend' a book you liked, but you 'suggest' a book that might be relevant to a topic. Recommendations carry the weight of your personal approval.

Other Alternatives: Recommendation: Based on personal approval. Advice: Expert guidance. Idea: The most basic, general term. Motion: A formal suggestion in a meeting.

I have a quick tip for peeling ginger: use a spoon instead of a knife!

Finally, in very formal or legal contexts, you might use 'intimation' or 'insinuation.' These are 'suggestions' that are often hidden or unpleasant. An 'insinuation' is a suggestion that someone has done something wrong, but without saying it directly. 'He resented the insinuation that he was lying.' This is a much more specific and charged word than 'suggestion.' By learning these alternatives, you can move beyond the basic B1 vocabulary and start expressing yourself with the nuance and precision of a native speaker. Whether you need the formality of a 'proposal' or the casualness of a 'tip,' choosing the right synonym is key to effective communication.

How Formal Is It?

Formell

"The committee is currently evaluating the suggestion put forward by the legal department."

Neutral

"I have a suggestion for how we can save money on our next trip."

Informell

"Any suggestions for what to watch on TV tonight?"

Child friendly

"I have a fun suggestion! Let's go get some ice cream!"

Umgangssprache

"Yo, I got a suggestion: let's just bounce and find a better party."

Wusstest du?

Originally, in English, the word often had a negative connotation, referring to an evil prompting or a temptation from the devil.

Aussprachehilfe

UK /səˈdʒestʃən/

US /səɡˈdʒestʃən/

The stress is on the second syllable: sug-GES-tion.

Reimt sich auf

congestion digestion ingestion question indigestion predigestion autosuggestion self-suggestion

Häufige Fehler

Pronouncing the 'g' as a hard 'g' like in 'game'.
Putting the stress on the first syllable.
Pronouncing 'tion' as 'tee-on'.
Missing the 's' sound in the middle.
Confusing the pronunciation with 'suction'.

Schwierigkeitsgrad

Lesen 3/5

Easy to recognize in most texts, though the 'hint' meaning can be tricky.

Schreiben 4/5

Requires care with countability and prepositions (for vs. of).

Sprechen 3/5

Common in conversation, but pronunciation of the 'g' can be a challenge.

Hören 3/5

Clearly audible in most contexts, often used in polite questions.

Was du als Nächstes lernen solltest

Voraussetzungen

idea plan think maybe help

Als Nächstes lernen

recommendation proposal advice influence persuade

Fortgeschritten

insinuation intimation subjunctive mood suggestibility hypnotic

Wichtige Grammatik

Countability

One suggestion, two suggestions (Correct). One advice, two advices (Incorrect).

Subjunctive Mood

I suggest that he *be* present at the meeting.

Prepositions (For)

A suggestion *for* a new car (purpose).

Prepositions (Of)

A suggestion *of* vanilla (trace/hint).

Verb Collocation

You *make* a suggestion, you don't *do* one.

Beispiele nach Niveau

I have a suggestion: let's go to the park.

J'ai une suggestion : allons au parc.

Use 'I have a...' to introduce your idea.

Do you have a suggestion for dinner?

As-tu une suggestion pour le dîner ?

This is a question asking for an idea.

That is a good suggestion!

C'est une bonne suggestion !

'Good' is an adjective describing the noun 'suggestion'.

Her suggestion was to watch a movie.

Sa suggestion était de regarder un film.

'Was' connects the suggestion to the action.

We need a suggestion for a game.

Nous avons besoin d'une suggestion pour un jeu.

'Need a suggestion for' is a common pattern.

Please write your suggestion here.

Veuillez écrire votre suggestion ici.

A polite command using 'please'.

I like your suggestion.

J'aime ta suggestion.

A simple subject-verb-object sentence.

He made a suggestion in the meeting.

Il a fait une suggestion pendant la réunion.

Use 'made' as the verb for 'suggestion'.

Can I make a suggestion about the party?

Puis-je faire une suggestion pour la fête ?

'Make a suggestion about' is a useful phrase.

They followed my suggestion and arrived early.

Ils ont suivi ma suggestion et sont arrivés tôt.

'Followed' means they did what was suggested.

There are many suggestions in the box.

Il y a beaucoup de suggestions dans la boîte.

'Suggestions' is plural here.

I don't have any suggestions for you today.

Je n'ai aucune suggestion pour vous aujourd'hui.

Use 'any' in negative sentences.

The teacher gave us a suggestion for the homework.

Le professeur nous a donné une suggestion pour les devoirs.

'Gave' is also used with suggestion, though 'made' is more common.

What is your suggestion for the weekend?

Quelle est ta suggestion pour le week-end ?

Asking for a specific idea for a specific time.

She rejected my suggestion immediately.

Elle a rejeté ma suggestion immédiatement.

'Rejected' is the opposite of 'accepted'.

Is there a suggestion of rain in the forecast?

Y a-t-il une ombre de pluie dans les prévisions ?

Here, 'suggestion of' means a small chance or hint.

At the suggestion of my doctor, I started exercising.

Sur la suggestion de mon médecin, j'ai commencé à faire de l'exercice.

'At the suggestion of' is a formal way to say who gave the idea.

The manager welcomed suggestions from the staff.

Le manager a accueilli favorablement les suggestions du personnel.

'Welcomed' shows a positive reaction to ideas.

His suggestion that we work through lunch was unpopular.

Sa suggestion que nous travaillions pendant le déjeuner était impopulaire.

A 'that' clause explains the content of the suggestion.

Could you offer some suggestions for improving our website?

Pourriez-vous proposer quelques suggestions pour améliorer notre site web ?

'Offer some suggestions' is a professional request.

There was a suggestion of anger in her voice.

Il y avait une pointe de colère dans sa voix.

This uses the 'hint/trace' meaning of the word.

I’m open to suggestions if you think there’s a better way.

Je suis ouvert aux suggestions si vous pensez qu'il y a une meilleure façon.

'Open to suggestions' is a common idiom.

The suggestion box is located near the entrance.

La boîte à idées est située près de l'entrée.

A compound noun: 'suggestion box'.

I made a suggestion, but nobody seemed to listen.

J'ai fait une suggestion, mais personne ne semblait écouter.

Using 'but' to show a contrast.

The committee is considering your suggestion for the new policy.

Le comité examine votre suggestion pour la nouvelle politique.

'Considering' implies a formal review process.

There is no suggestion that the company acted illegally.

Rien ne suggère que l'entreprise a agi illégalement.

'There is no suggestion that' means there is no evidence or hint.

The room was decorated with a suggestion of Oriental style.

La pièce était décorée avec une touche de style oriental.

A more literary use of 'suggestion' as a subtle influence.

I’d like to put forward a suggestion regarding the budget.

J'aimerais formuler une suggestion concernant le budget.

'Put forward' is a formal phrasal verb for making a suggestion.

The power of suggestion can be very strong in marketing.

Le pouvoir de la suggestion peut être très fort en marketing.

'Power of suggestion' is a fixed psychological term.

Her suggestion was that the project be postponed until next year.

Sa suggestion était que le projet soit reporté à l'année prochaine.

Uses the subjunctive 'be postponed' after 'suggestion that'.

He ignored all suggestions of caution and went ahead anyway.

Il a ignoré toutes les suggestions de prudence et a continué quand même.

'Suggestions of caution' means hints or warnings.

The chef added a suggestion of truffle oil to the pasta.

Le chef a ajouté une pointe d'huile de truffe aux pâtes.

Describes a very small, subtle amount.

The mere suggestion of a scandal was enough to ruin his career.

La simple évocation d'un scandale a suffi à ruiner sa carrière.

'Mere suggestion' emphasizes how little was needed to cause an effect.

His paintings often contain a suggestion of movement that is quite hypnotic.

Ses peintures contiennent souvent une impression de mouvement qui est assez hypnotique.

Using 'suggestion' to describe an abstract artistic quality.

She resented the suggestion that she had only got the job through luck.

Elle a mal pris l'insinuation selon laquelle elle n'avait obtenu le poste que par chance.

Here, 'suggestion' acts as a synonym for 'insinuation'.

The architect incorporated a suggestion of Gothic influence into the design.

L'architecte a incorporé une touche d'influence gothique dans le design.

Describes a subtle architectural reference.

There was a suggestion of a threat in his polite words.

Il y avait une ombre de menace dans ses paroles polies.

Describes a hidden, underlying meaning.

The report dismissed the suggestion that the climate was changing rapidly.

Le rapport a rejeté l'idée que le climat changeait rapidement.

'Dismissed the suggestion' is a common formal collocation.

The music had a suggestion of melancholy that lingered long after it ended.

La musique avait une pointe de mélancolie qui a persisté longtemps après la fin.

Describes an emotional quality that is not overt.

I am acting on the suggestion of the legal department.

J'agis sur la suggestion du service juridique.

'Acting on the suggestion of' means following the advice.

The author’s prose is masterfully sparse, relying on suggestion rather than explicit detail.

La prose de l'auteur est magistralement dépouillée, s'appuyant sur la suggestion plutôt que sur des détails explicites.

Contrasts 'suggestion' with 'explicit detail' in a literary context.

There was a subtle suggestion of lavender in the air, barely perceptible but pleasant.

Il y avait une subtile effluve de lavande dans l'air, à peine perceptible mais agréable.

Focuses on the extreme subtlety of the 'trace' meaning.

He bristled at the slightest suggestion of criticism regarding his work.

Il s'est hérissé à la moindre suggestion de critique concernant son travail.

'Slightest suggestion' emphasizes extreme sensitivity.

The play ends with a suggestion of hope, though the characters' fates remain uncertain.

La pièce se termine sur une note d'espoir, bien que le sort des personnages reste incertain.

Describes a thematic element that is hinted at but not confirmed.

Her performance was characterized by a suggestion of hidden depths and untold sorrows.

Sa performance était caractérisée par une impression de profondeurs cachées et de chagrins indicibles.

Uses 'suggestion' to describe complex, non-obvious qualities.

The treaty was drafted at the suggestion of several neutral nations.

Le traité a été rédigé à la suggestion de plusieurs nations neutres.

A high-level political usage of the word.

There is a suggestion of a cyclical pattern in the economic data.

Il y a un soupçon de modèle cyclique dans les données économiques.

Used in data analysis to describe a possible but unproven trend.

The film noir aesthetic is built on the suggestion of violence lurking in the shadows.

L'esthétique du film noir repose sur la suggestion d'une violence tapie dans l'ombre.

Describes an atmospheric quality in cinema.

Häufige Kollokationen

make a suggestion

at the suggestion of

welcome suggestions

helpful suggestion

any suggestions?

suggestion box

follow a suggestion

constructive suggestion

suggestion of

open to suggestions

Häufige Phrasen

If I may make a suggestion

Open to suggestions

At someone's suggestion

Any suggestions?

A suggestion of

Constructive suggestion

Valuable suggestion

Tentative suggestion

Welcome suggestions

Practical suggestion

Wird oft verwechselt mit

suggestion vs advice

Advice is uncountable; suggestion is countable. Advice is often more authoritative.

suggestion vs recommendation

A recommendation is usually based on personal approval or expert status.

suggestion vs proposal

A proposal is more formal and usually requires a formal decision.

Redewendungen & Ausdrücke

"The power of suggestion"

The psychological phenomenon where people are influenced by what is suggested to them.

He only felt sick because of the power of suggestion after hearing about the virus.

neutral

"Leave a suggestion"

To provide an idea or feedback, often in a formal way.

Please leave a suggestion in the box if you have ideas for the office.

neutral

"Take a suggestion"

To accept and act upon an idea offered by someone else.

I think you should take my suggestion and apologize to him.

informal

"By way of suggestion"

Used to introduce an idea as a possibility rather than a fact.

I mention this only by way of suggestion, not as a final decision.

formal

"Dismiss a suggestion out of hand"

To reject an idea immediately without even considering it.

He dismissed my suggestion out of hand, which was very rude.

neutral

"Act on a suggestion"

To do something because it was suggested.

The government acted on the suggestion of the health experts.

formal

"A suggestion of a smile"

A very slight, almost unnoticeable smile.

There was a suggestion of a smile on her face as she looked at the photo.

literary

"Beyond suggestion"

Something that is so obvious or certain that it doesn't need to be suggested.

His guilt was beyond suggestion; the evidence was clear.

formal

"Feed a suggestion"

To subtly give someone an idea so they think it was their own.

The lawyer tried to feed a suggestion to the witness during the trial.

neutral

"Open for suggestions"

Similar to 'open to suggestions', indicating a willingness to hear ideas.

The floor is now open for suggestions regarding the holiday party.

neutral

Leicht verwechselbar

suggestion vs suggestive

It looks like the adjective form of suggestion.

While 'suggestion' is neutral, 'suggestive' often means provocative or sexually hinting.

That was a suggestive comment (implies sex). That was a helpful suggestion (implies an idea).

suggestion vs suggestion

Often confused with 'advice' in terms of grammar.

You can say 'a suggestion' but never 'an advice'.

He gave me a suggestion. He gave me some advice.

suggestion vs hint

Both can mean a small amount.

'Hint' is more common for physical things (cooking), while 'suggestion' is more common for abstract things (feelings).

A hint of salt. A suggestion of sadness.

suggestion vs clue

Both can mean a sign of something.

A clue is specifically for solving a problem or mystery.

The detective found a clue. There was a suggestion of guilt.

suggestion vs motion

Both are ideas put forward in meetings.

A motion is a formal, legalistic term used in official meetings.

I make a motion to end the meeting. I have a suggestion for the next meeting.

Satzmuster

I have a suggestion.

I have a suggestion for the game.

Do you have any suggestions?

Do you have any suggestions for lunch?

At the suggestion of [person]...

At the suggestion of my boss, I took the course.

My suggestion is that...

My suggestion is that we leave now.

There is a suggestion of [noun]...

There is a suggestion of a breeze today.

I'd like to make a constructive suggestion.

I'd like to make a constructive suggestion about the report.

The mere suggestion of [noun]...

The mere suggestion of failure upset him.

It was at [person]'s suggestion that [clause]...

It was at her suggestion that the project be halted.

Wortfamilie

Substantive

Verben

Adjektive

Verwandt

So verwendest du es

frequency

Very common in both spoken and written English.

Häufige Fehler

He gave me a good advice. → He gave me a good suggestion.
Advice is uncountable, so you can't use 'a'. Suggestion is countable, so 'a suggestion' is correct.
I want to do a suggestion. → I want to make a suggestion.
In English, we 'make' suggestions, we don't 'do' them. This is a common collocation error.
This is a suggestive idea. → This is a helpful suggestion.
'Suggestive' usually has a sexual connotation. Use 'helpful' or 'constructive' instead.
I have a suggestion of the project. → I have a suggestion for the project.
Use 'for' to indicate the purpose or target of the suggestion. 'Of' is for hints or traces.
My suggestion is that he is invited. → My suggestion is that he be invited.
In formal English, the subjunctive mood (base form of the verb) is used after 'suggestion that'.

Tipps

Count Your Suggestions

Always remember that 'suggestion' is countable. Never say 'some suggestion' if you mean 'some advice'. Say 'a suggestion' or 'some suggestions'.

Soften Your Tone

Use 'I have a suggestion' instead of 'You should'. It makes you sound more collaborative and less bossy, which is important in English culture.

Suggestion vs. Advice

If you want to sound more expert, use 'advice'. If you want to sound like a peer or a friend, use 'suggestion'. Suggestion is lighter and more optional.

A Tiny Amount

In recipes, 'a suggestion of' means a very small amount. It's like saying 'a pinch' or 'a hint'. Use it to describe subtle flavors.

Professional Proposals

In a boardroom, use 'put forward a suggestion'. It sounds more professional than just 'saying an idea'. It shows you have thought about it.

The Soft G

Remember the 'g' in suggestion sounds like a 'j'. Practice saying 'sug-jes-tion' to avoid the common hard 'g' mistake.

The Subjunctive Mood

In formal writing, use the base form of the verb after 'suggestion that'. For example: 'My suggestion is that he *stay*.' It sounds very advanced.

Asking for Ideas

Use 'Any suggestions?' as a quick way to start a group chat about plans. It's the perfect conversation starter for friends.

Mental Influence

Be aware of the 'power of suggestion'. Sometimes just mentioning an idea can make people believe it's true. Use this knowledge carefully!

Subtle Details

When describing art, use 'suggestion' to talk about things that aren't clearly drawn but are still felt by the viewer.

Einprägen

Eselsbrücke

SUG-GEST-ION: Think of 'SUG' as 'Sub' (under) and 'GEST' as 'Gesture'. You are making a small gesture of an idea under someone's nose for them to see.

Visuelle Assoziation

Imagine a 'suggestion box' with a lightbulb drawing on it. Every time you put a paper in, the lightbulb glows.

Word Web

Idea Plan Hint Trace Proposal Advice Choice Influence

Herausforderung

Try to use the word 'suggestion' three times today: once at work/school, once with a friend, and once to describe a smell or taste.

Wortherkunft

The word comes from the Latin 'suggestio', which is the noun form of the verb 'suggerere'.

Ursprüngliche Bedeutung: In Latin, 'suggerere' meant 'to bring under', 'to supply', or 'to furnish'. It is a combination of 'sub' (under) and 'gerere' (to carry).

It entered Middle English via Old French 'suggestion' in the late 14th century.

Kultureller Kontext

Be careful with 'suggestive' as it can imply something sexual. Stick to 'suggestion' for ideas.

Suggestions are often prefaced with 'softeners' like 'maybe,' 'perhaps,' or 'could' to avoid appearing too bossy.

The 'Power of Suggestion' is a common theme in psychological thrillers like 'Inception'. Suggestion boxes are a staple of office-themed sitcoms like 'The Office'. The phrase 'May I make a suggestion?' is a classic line for helpful characters in films.

Im Alltag üben

Kontexte aus dem Alltag

At Work

May I make a suggestion?
I have a suggestion for the project.
The suggestion box is open.
We welcome your suggestions.

In a Restaurant

Do you have any suggestions?
What is the chef's suggestion?
I have a suggestion for the wine.
The server made a great suggestion.

With Friends

Any suggestions for tonight?
That's a great suggestion!
I'm open to suggestions.
Whose suggestion was this?

Cooking

A suggestion of garlic.
A suggestion of salt.
Add a suggestion of spice.
A suggestion of lemon juice.

Legal/Journalism

A suggestion of foul play.
No suggestion of guilt.
The suggestion of a scandal.
Dismiss the suggestion.

Gesprächseinstiege

"If you could make one suggestion to improve your city, what would it be?"

"Do you have any suggestions for a good movie to watch this weekend?"

"What is the best suggestion someone has ever given you?"

"Are you usually open to suggestions, or do you prefer to do things your own way?"

"If I asked for a suggestion for a great vacation spot, where would you say?"

Tagebuch-Impulse

Write about a time you made a suggestion that was rejected. How did you feel?

Describe a dish you love that has a 'suggestion' of a specific flavor.

Think about a major life choice you made at the suggestion of someone else. Was it a good choice?

Why do you think companies use suggestion boxes? Do they actually work?

Write a short story where a 'suggestion of a secret' leads to a big mystery.

Häufig gestellte Fragen

10 Fragen

Yes, 'suggestion' is a countable noun. You can say 'a suggestion,' 'two suggestions,' or 'many suggestions.' This is a key difference from 'advice,' which is uncountable.

Yes, you can say 'give a suggestion,' but 'make a suggestion' is much more common and sounds more natural to native speakers.

A suggestion is usually informal and can be just a quick idea. A proposal is more formal, often written down, and usually requires an official decision or a vote.

No, it can also mean a very small amount or a hint of something, like 'a suggestion of spice' in food or 'a suggestion of a smile' on someone's face.

No! Be careful. 'Suggestive' usually means that something is provocative or hints at something sexual. If you mean 'full of ideas,' use 'helpful' or 'informative' instead.

You can say, 'May I make a suggestion?' or 'I'd like to put forward a suggestion regarding...' These are polite and professional ways to introduce your ideas.

Use 'for' when talking about a purpose ('a suggestion for the party') and 'of' when talking about a hint or trace ('a suggestion of vanilla').

Yes, it is a formal way to say that you did something because someone else suggested it. For example, 'I joined the team at the suggestion of my manager.'

It is a psychological term that describes how people can be influenced to think or feel something just because it was suggested to them.

Yes, absolutely. For example: 'We are looking for suggestions on how to improve our service.' It is very common to use the plural form.