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A2 noun #2,500 le plus courant 14 min de lecture

sugerencia

A proposal or idea put forward for consideration.

At the A1 level, you are just beginning your journey into the Spanish language. The word 'sugerencia' might seem a bit long and complicated to pronounce at first, but it is a very useful word to know. It simply means 'suggestion' or 'idea'. When you are with friends or classmates and you want to do something, you can use this word. For example, if you are hungry and want to eat pizza, you can say, 'Tengo una sugerencia: ¡pizza!' (I have a suggestion: pizza!). It is a polite way to tell people what you want to do without being bossy. You will also see this word in places like restaurants or stores. Sometimes there is a box on the wall that says 'Buzón de sugerencias'. This means 'Suggestion box'. It is where people can write down their ideas to make the place better. To use this word correctly, remember that it is feminine. This means you must say 'una sugerencia' (a suggestion) or 'la sugerencia' (the suggestion). You cannot say 'un sugerencia'. Also, when you want to say 'to make a suggestion', you use the verb 'hacer'. So you say 'hacer una sugerencia'. Do not use the verb 'dar' (to give). Practice saying the word slowly: su-he-ren-sia. The 'g' sounds like an English 'h'. Even though it is a big word, using it will make your Spanish sound very natural and polite right from the start.
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At the A2 level, you are starting to have more detailed conversations and make plans with other people. The word 'sugerencia' becomes very important here because it helps you interact smoothly in social situations. A 'sugerencia' is a proposal or an idea that you offer to someone else to consider. It is not a command; it is an option. For example, if you and your friends are trying to decide which movie to watch, you can say, '¿Puedo hacer una sugerencia?' (Can I make a suggestion?). This shows that you have an idea but you respect the group's decision. You will also start to use adjectives with this word to describe the type of suggestion. You can say 'una buena sugerencia' (a good suggestion) or 'una excelente sugerencia' (an excellent suggestion). If someone gives you an idea that you like, you can reply, '¡Es una gran sugerencia!' (That's a great suggestion!). At this level, you should also be comfortable recognizing the word in written form, such as on feedback forms or signs in public places. Remember the golden rule: always use the verb 'hacer' (to make) with 'sugerencia', not 'dar' (to give). 'Hacer una sugerencia' is the natural way native speakers express this concept. By incorporating 'sugerencia' into your vocabulary, you can participate more actively in group decisions and express your preferences politely and effectively.
At the B1 level, your ability to express opinions, give advice, and navigate more complex social interactions is expanding. The word 'sugerencia' is crucial for these functions. At this stage, you need to understand the grammatical structures that accompany 'sugerencia', specifically its relationship with the subjunctive mood. When you use the phrase 'Mi sugerencia es que...' (My suggestion is that...), you are expressing a desire or an influence over someone else's actions. Therefore, the verb that follows 'que' must be in the subjunctive. For example, 'Mi sugerencia es que estudies más' (My suggestion is that you study more). This is a classic subjunctive trigger and a key grammar point for B1 learners. You should also be able to distinguish 'sugerencia' from similar words like 'consejo' (advice). A 'consejo' is usually more personal and carries more weight, often given by someone with experience, while a 'sugerencia' is a practical idea or alternative offered in a specific situation. In professional or academic contexts, you can use 'sugerencia' to offer constructive feedback. For instance, 'Tengo un par de sugerencias para mejorar tu presentación' (I have a couple of suggestions to improve your presentation). You will also learn verbs to respond to suggestions, such as 'aceptar una sugerencia' (to accept a suggestion) or 'rechazar una sugerencia' (to reject a suggestion). Mastering these nuances will significantly improve your conversational fluency and grammatical accuracy.
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At the B2 level, you are expected to communicate with a degree of fluency and spontaneity that makes regular interaction with native speakers quite possible without strain for either party. Your use of 'sugerencia' should reflect this advanced competence. You will use it comfortably in professional, academic, and formal environments. In a business meeting, you might say, 'Me gustaría plantear una sugerencia respecto al nuevo presupuesto' (I would like to raise a suggestion regarding the new budget). Notice the use of more sophisticated verbs like 'plantear' or 'presentar' instead of just 'hacer'. You should also be adept at using 'sugerencia' to soften criticisms or directives, a key pragmatic skill in Spanish-speaking workplace cultures. Instead of telling a colleague their work is wrong, you might say, 'A modo de sugerencia, quizás podríamos revisar esta sección' (As a suggestion, perhaps we could review this section). This demonstrates cultural awareness and emotional intelligence. Furthermore, you will encounter 'sugerencia' in complex sentence structures, such as conditional sentences: 'Si me permites una sugerencia, yo lo haría de otra manera' (If you allow me a suggestion, I would do it differently). You should also be fully comfortable with the subjunctive triggers associated with the word, effortlessly producing sentences like 'Agradezco tu sugerencia de que cambiemos la fecha' (I appreciate your suggestion that we change the date). At this level, 'sugerencia' is a tool for diplomacy, negotiation, and refined communication.
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At the C1 level, your command of Spanish allows you to express yourself fluently and spontaneously without much obvious searching for expressions. Your use of 'sugerencia' will be highly nuanced and contextually precise. You understand that a 'sugerencia' can range from a mild hint to a strong, almost mandatory recommendation, depending entirely on the tone, context, and the power dynamic between the speakers. In diplomatic or highly formal corporate settings, a 'sugerencia' from a superior might actually function as a polite command. You can navigate these pragmatic subtleties effortlessly. You will use advanced collocations and idiomatic expressions involving the word. For example, 'hacer caso omiso a una sugerencia' (to ignore a suggestion) or 'tomar una sugerencia al pie de la letra' (to take a suggestion literally). You can also engage in abstract discussions about the nature of advice and proposals, distinguishing perfectly between 'sugerencia', 'recomendación', 'consejo', 'advertencia', and 'propuesta'. In academic writing, you will use 'sugerencia' to discuss the implications of research: 'Las sugerencias de este estudio apuntan a una necesidad de reforma' (The suggestions of this study point to a need for reform). Your mastery of the subjunctive is absolute, allowing you to construct complex, multi-clause sentences where 'sugerencia' dictates the mood of subsequent verbs, even when separated by intervening clauses. You use the word not just to communicate, but to persuade, negotiate, and influence with native-like elegance.
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At the C2 level, you possess a comprehensive and near-native mastery of the Spanish language. You can understand with ease virtually everything heard or read, and you can summarize information from different spoken and written sources, reconstructing arguments and accounts in a coherent presentation. Your deployment of the word 'sugerencia' is flawless, encompassing its most literary, abstract, and culturally embedded uses. You recognize 'sugerencia' not just as a proposal, but as a subtle evocation or implication in art and literature. For instance, in literary criticism, you might discuss 'el poder de sugerencia de la poesía de Lorca' (the power of suggestion in Lorca's poetry), referring to the text's ability to evoke emotions or ideas without stating them explicitly. You are acutely aware of the sociolinguistic dimensions of making a 'sugerencia' across different Spanish-speaking regions, adjusting your register and phrasing whether you are in a formal boardroom in Bogotá, a casual gathering in Madrid, or an academic symposium in Buenos Aires. You effortlessly employ complex rhetorical devices, using 'sugerencia' to craft arguments that are persuasive yet impeccably polite. You might say, 'Lejos de ser una imposición, esta medida se plantea como una mera sugerencia heurística para desatascar el debate' (Far from being an imposition, this measure is proposed as a mere heuristic suggestion to unblock the debate). At this pinnacle of proficiency, 'sugerencia' is a multifaceted instrument in your expansive linguistic repertoire, used with absolute precision and stylistic flair.
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Entraîne-toi Exemples Notes et astuces

sugerencia en 30 secondes

  • Means 'suggestion' or 'proposal'.
  • Feminine noun: la sugerencia.
  • Use 'hacer' (to make), not 'dar' (to give).
  • Triggers subjunctive: 'Mi sugerencia es que vayas'.
The word 'sugerencia' is a fundamental noun in the Spanish language that translates directly to 'suggestion' in English. Understanding how to use 'sugerencia' correctly is essential for anyone looking to achieve fluency in Spanish, as it is a high-frequency word used in a wide variety of contexts, ranging from casual conversations among friends to formal business meetings and academic settings. When we analyze the morphological structure of the word 'sugerencia', we can see that it derives from the verb 'sugerir', which means 'to suggest'. The suffix '-encia' is a common noun-forming suffix in Spanish, often used to denote an action, state, or quality, similar to the English suffixes '-ence' or '-ency'. Therefore, 'sugerencia' literally refers to the act of suggesting or the idea that has been suggested. In everyday communication, making a 'sugerencia' is a polite and non-confrontational way to offer advice, propose a plan, or share an idea without imposing one's will on another person. This is particularly important in Hispanic cultures, where politeness, respect, and maintaining harmonious interpersonal relationships are highly valued. By framing an idea as a 'sugerencia' rather than a direct command or an absolute statement, the speaker demonstrates humility and respect for the listener's autonomy, allowing them the freedom to accept, reject, or modify the proposal as they see fit. This pragmatic function makes 'sugerencia' an indispensable tool for effective and culturally appropriate communication.
Linguistic Root
Derived from the Latin 'suggerere', meaning to bring up or supply.

Tengo una excelente sugerencia para la cena de esta noche.

Furthermore, the concept of a 'sugerencia' extends beyond mere verbal communication; it is deeply embedded in the structural feedback mechanisms of institutions and businesses. For instance, the 'buzón de sugerencias' (suggestion box) is a ubiquitous feature in workplaces, schools, and public service centers across the Spanish-speaking world. This physical or digital receptacle symbolizes an organization's willingness to listen to its constituents, employees, or customers, thereby fostering a culture of continuous improvement and open dialogue.
Cultural Context
In many Latin American countries, offering a 'sugerencia' is preferred over direct criticism to save face.

El jefe aceptó mi sugerencia sobre el nuevo proyecto.

When learning how to navigate social situations in Spanish, mastering the vocabulary surrounding 'sugerencia' allows learners to participate more actively and confidently in group decision-making processes. Whether you are deciding on a restaurant with friends, proposing a new workflow to your colleagues, or offering constructive feedback to a peer, the ability to articulate a 'sugerencia' clearly and politely is a vital skill. It is also worth noting that the reception of a 'sugerencia' can vary depending on the tone of voice, the relationship between the speakers, and the specific context in which it is offered. A 'sugerencia' given by a teacher to a student carries a different weight than one given by a friend to another friend.
Grammar Note
The word is feminine, so it must be accompanied by feminine articles and adjectives, such as 'una buena sugerencia'.

Si me permites una sugerencia, creo que deberías descansar.

In formal writing, such as business emails or academic papers, 'sugerencia' is often used to introduce recommendations or propose future actions based on the findings or discussions presented. This formal usage highlights the word's versatility and its capacity to elevate the register of one's language.

El comité evaluará cada sugerencia con detenimiento.

Ultimately, 'sugerencia' is more than just a vocabulary word; it is a gateway to understanding the nuances of Spanish pragmatics, social etiquette, and effective interpersonal communication. By incorporating 'sugerencia' into your active vocabulary, you will not only improve your linguistic proficiency but also enhance your ability to connect with native speakers on a deeper, more culturally aware level.

Gracias por tu sugerencia, la tendré en cuenta.

Using the word 'sugerencia' correctly involves understanding its grammatical properties, its common collocations, and the syntactic structures in which it typically appears. As a feminine noun, 'sugerencia' must always be accompanied by feminine articles (la, una, las, unas) and feminine adjectives (buena, mala, excelente, constructiva). The most critical aspect of using 'sugerencia' is knowing which verbs to pair it with. Unlike in English, where we 'make' or 'give' a suggestion, in Spanish, the standard collocation is 'hacer una sugerencia' (to make a suggestion). While 'dar una sugerencia' is sometimes heard, especially in colloquial speech or as a direct translation from English, 'hacer' is universally recognized as the more natural and grammatically precise choice.
Verb Collocation
Always prioritize 'hacer una sugerencia' over 'dar una sugerencia' in formal contexts.

Me gustaría hacer una sugerencia al respecto.

Another essential grammatical structure involves the use of the subjunctive mood. When you state that your suggestion is that someone else do something, you must use the subjunctive in the dependent clause. The formula is: 'Mi sugerencia es que' + [subject] + [verb in subjunctive]. For example, 'Mi sugerencia es que vayas al médico' (My suggestion is that you go to the doctor). This structure is a classic trigger for the subjunctive because it expresses influence, recommendation, or a desire for someone else to perform an action. Mastering this structure is a significant milestone for Spanish learners, as it bridges the gap between intermediate and advanced proficiency.
Subjunctive Trigger
The phrase 'es una sugerencia que...' requires the following verb to be in the subjunctive mood.

Mi sugerencia es que hables con ella primero.

In professional or formal environments, you might also encounter verbs like 'presentar' (to present), 'plantear' (to propose/raise), or 'someter' (to submit) used in conjunction with 'sugerencia'. For instance, 'El equipo presentó varias sugerencias para mejorar la eficiencia' (The team presented several suggestions to improve efficiency). When you want to ask for someone's input, you can use phrases like '¿Tienes alguna sugerencia?' (Do you have any suggestions?) or 'Se aceptan sugerencias' (Suggestions are welcome). It is also common to use adjectives to qualify the type of suggestion being made. A 'sugerencia constructiva' is a constructive suggestion, while a 'sugerencia práctica' is a practical one. In customer service contexts, you will frequently see the phrase 'Quejas y sugerencias' (Complaints and suggestions), which is a standard category on feedback forms and websites.
Common Phrase
Buzón de quejas y sugerencias (Complaints and suggestions box).

Por favor, deje su sugerencia en el buzón.

When rejecting a suggestion, it is polite to acknowledge it first before declining. Phrases like 'Agradezco tu sugerencia, pero...' (I appreciate your suggestion, but...) or 'Es una buena sugerencia, sin embargo...' (It's a good suggestion, however...) are excellent ways to maintain a positive relationship while disagreeing.

Rechazaron mi sugerencia por falta de presupuesto.

By practicing these various structures, collocations, and polite formulations, you will be able to use 'sugerencia' fluidly and accurately in any situation, demonstrating a high level of communicative competence in Spanish.

¿Puedo hacerte una pequeña sugerencia?

The word 'sugerencia' is ubiquitous in the Spanish-speaking world, appearing in a vast array of contexts ranging from the highly formal to the intimately personal. One of the most common places you will encounter this word is in the realm of customer service and business. Almost every company, restaurant, hotel, and public institution has a mechanism for receiving feedback, typically labeled as a 'buzón de sugerencias' (suggestion box) or a 'libro de quejas y sugerencias' (complaints and suggestions book). In these environments, 'sugerencia' represents the voice of the consumer, offering a formal channel for clients to express their opinions, propose improvements, or highlight areas of dissatisfaction.
Customer Service
A standard term used in feedback forms and customer satisfaction surveys.

Llené el formulario de sugerencias en el restaurante.

Beyond the commercial sphere, 'sugerencia' is a staple of workplace communication. During meetings, brainstorming sessions, or project evaluations, colleagues frequently exchange 'sugerencias' to optimize workflows, solve problems, or innovate. A manager might say, 'Estoy abierto a cualquier sugerencia' (I am open to any suggestion), fostering a collaborative and inclusive team environment. In academic settings, teachers and professors provide 'sugerencias' to students on their essays, projects, or presentations, guiding them toward better academic performance without necessarily framing the feedback as absolute corrections.
Workplace
Used to encourage teamwork and collaborative problem-solving.

El profesor anotó varias sugerencias en mi ensayo.

In everyday social interactions, 'sugerencia' plays a crucial role in navigating plans and making decisions with friends and family. When deciding what movie to watch, where to go for dinner, or how to spend the weekend, someone might offer a 'sugerencia' to get the conversation started. For example, '¿Alguien tiene una sugerencia para el almuerzo?' (Does anyone have a suggestion for lunch?). This usage is casual but maintains a level of politeness that respects the group's collective decision-making process. Furthermore, you will hear 'sugerencia' in the context of health and wellness. Doctors, nutritionists, and fitness trainers often frame their advice as 'sugerencias' to encourage patients or clients to adopt healthier habits voluntarily. A doctor might say, 'Como sugerencia, deberías beber más agua' (As a suggestion, you should drink more water). This approach is often more effective than issuing strict commands, as it empowers the individual to take ownership of their health.
Healthcare
Medical professionals use it to offer gentle lifestyle advice.

El médico me dio una sugerencia para dormir mejor.

You might also encounter the word in digital spaces, such as social media algorithms or streaming platforms, which provide 'sugerencias de amistad' (friend suggestions) or 'sugerencias de videos' (video suggestions) based on your previous activity. In literature and journalism, 'sugerencia' can refer to a subtle implication or a hint, adding depth and nuance to the text.

Netflix me mostró una sugerencia de una película de terror.

Overall, whether you are navigating a corporate office in Madrid, dining at a local fonda in Mexico City, or simply chatting with friends online, 'sugerencia' is a word you will hear and use constantly, making it an indispensable part of your Spanish vocabulary arsenal.

Aceptamos tu sugerencia con mucho gusto.

When learning to use the word 'sugerencia', Spanish learners often encounter a few common pitfalls that can make their speech sound unnatural or grammatically incorrect. One of the most frequent mistakes is using the wrong verb to accompany 'sugerencia'. Because English speakers say 'to give a suggestion', they naturally translate this directly to 'dar una sugerencia'. While native speakers will certainly understand what you mean, and you might even hear it occasionally in informal contexts, the correct and universally preferred collocation is 'hacer una sugerencia' (to make a suggestion). Using 'hacer' instantly elevates your Spanish and makes you sound more like a native speaker.
Verb Error
Avoid 'dar una sugerencia'; use 'hacer una sugerencia' instead.

Quiero hacer una sugerencia importante.

Another significant area of difficulty involves the subjunctive mood. When a learner wants to say 'My suggestion is that we go to the park', they might incorrectly say 'Mi sugerencia es que vamos al parque', using the indicative mood ('vamos'). However, because a suggestion expresses a desire or influence over another person's actions, it strictly requires the subjunctive mood in the dependent clause. The correct sentence is 'Mi sugerencia es que vayamos al parque'. Failing to use the subjunctive in these structures is a hallmark of beginner or intermediate Spanish and is a crucial error to correct as you advance toward fluency.
Mood Error
Forgetting to use the subjunctive after 'Mi sugerencia es que...'.

Su sugerencia es que compremos los boletos hoy.

Learners also sometimes confuse 'sugerencia' with similar words like 'consejo' (advice) or 'aviso' (warning/notice). While a 'sugerencia' is an idea put forward for consideration, a 'consejo' implies a stronger recommendation based on wisdom or experience, and an 'aviso' is a notification or warning about a fact or future event. Using 'sugerencia' when you mean 'aviso' can lead to miscommunication, especially in urgent situations. For example, if there is a wet floor, you need an 'aviso' (warning), not a 'sugerencia' (suggestion). Additionally, there can be issues with gender agreement. Since 'sugerencia' ends in '-a', it is a feminine noun. Learners might accidentally use masculine articles or adjectives, saying 'un sugerencia' or 'el sugerencia', which is grammatically incorrect. Always ensure that the surrounding words agree in gender and number: 'una buena sugerencia', 'las sugerencias útiles'.
Gender Agreement
Always use feminine modifiers with 'sugerencia'.

Esa es una sugerencia muy interesante.

Finally, pronunciation can sometimes be a stumbling block. The 'g' in 'sugerencia' is pronounced like the English 'h' (a soft, guttural sound), not like the hard 'g' in 'go'. The phonetic breakdown is /su-he-ren-sia/. Mispronouncing the 'g' can make the word difficult for native speakers to recognize immediately. By paying attention to these common mistakes—using 'hacer', applying the subjunctive, distinguishing it from synonyms, ensuring gender agreement, and mastering the pronunciation—you will be able to use 'sugerencia' flawlessly.

Tengo varias sugerencias para mejorar el diseño.

Nadie escuchó mi sugerencia durante la reunión.

In Spanish, there are several words that share semantic territory with 'sugerencia', but each carries its own specific nuance, register, and context of use. Understanding the subtle differences between these synonyms is key to expressing yourself with precision and sophistication. The most common synonym is 'consejo', which translates to 'advice' or 'piece of advice'. While a 'sugerencia' is simply an idea or proposal put forward for consideration, a 'consejo' implies a deeper level of wisdom, experience, or personal investment. You might offer a 'sugerencia' about which restaurant to choose for dinner, but you would give a 'consejo' to a friend going through a difficult breakup. A 'consejo' carries more moral or practical weight than a mere 'sugerencia'.
Consejo
Advice; implies wisdom or a stronger recommendation than a suggestion.

Te doy un consejo, no una simple sugerencia.

Another closely related word is 'recomendación' (recommendation). A 'recomendación' is very similar to a 'sugerencia', but it often implies a stronger endorsement based on personal experience or professional expertise. For example, a waiter might give you a 'recomendación' from the menu because they know it is the best dish, whereas a 'sugerencia' might just be an alternative option. In professional contexts, a 'recomendación' carries more authority.
Recomendación
Recommendation; carries a stronger endorsement based on expertise or experience.

La sugerencia del chef es el salmón al horno.

The word 'propuesta' (proposal) is also frequently used in similar contexts, particularly in business, politics, or formal planning. A 'propuesta' is a formal, structured plan or idea presented for approval or discussion. It is much heavier and more formalized than a 'sugerencia'. If you are in a boardroom, you might make a 'sugerencia' during a brainstorming session, but you would present a 'propuesta' when you have a fully developed plan requiring a vote or executive approval. Additionally, the word 'idea' can often function as a synonym for 'sugerencia' in casual conversation. Saying 'Tengo una idea' (I have an idea) is functionally very similar to saying 'Tengo una sugerencia' (I have a suggestion), though 'sugerencia' explicitly frames the idea as something being offered to others for their input or approval.
Idea
A general thought or concept, often used interchangeably with suggestion in casual speech.

Esa es una buena sugerencia, me gusta tu idea.

Finally, 'indicación' (indication/instruction) is sometimes confused with 'sugerencia', but they are quite different. An 'indicación' is a direction or instruction that is expected to be followed, whereas a 'sugerencia' is optional. Confusing these two can lead to misunderstandings about whether an action is mandatory or voluntary. By carefully selecting between 'sugerencia', 'consejo', 'recomendación', 'propuesta', and 'idea', you can communicate your intentions with exact clarity and appropriate tone.

Tomaré tu comentario como una sugerencia, no como una orden.

¿Tienes alguna otra sugerencia antes de terminar?

How Formal Is It?

Formel

""

Informel

""

Niveau de difficulté

Grammaire à connaître

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Exemples par niveau

1

Tengo una sugerencia para ti.

I have a suggestion for you.

Use 'una' because sugerencia is feminine.

2

Es una buena sugerencia.

It is a good suggestion.

Adjective 'buena' matches the feminine noun.

3

¿Tienes una sugerencia?

Do you have a suggestion?

Question format using the verb 'tener'.

4

La sugerencia es comer pizza.

The suggestion is to eat pizza.

Using 'la' as the definite article.

5

No me gusta esa sugerencia.

I don't like that suggestion.

Using 'esa' (that) with a feminine noun.

6

El buzón de sugerencias está allí.

The suggestion box is there.

'Buzón de sugerencias' is a fixed phrase.

7

Quiero hacer una sugerencia.

I want to make a suggestion.

Always use 'hacer' (to make), not 'dar' (to give).

8

Gracias por la sugerencia.

Thanks for the suggestion.

Use 'por' to express gratitude for something.

1

¿Puedo hacer una sugerencia para el fin de semana?

Can I make a suggestion for the weekend?

Using 'poder' to ask permission politely.

2

Mi sugerencia es ir al cine.

My suggestion is to go to the movies.

'Mi sugerencia es' followed by an infinitive verb.

3

Aceptamos tu sugerencia con gusto.

We gladly accept your suggestion.

Using the verb 'aceptar' (to accept).

4

Esa fue una sugerencia muy útil.

That was a very useful suggestion.

Using the past tense 'fue' and the adjective 'útil'.

5

Por favor, escribe tu sugerencia en el papel.

Please, write your suggestion on the paper.

Imperative form 'escribe'.

6

Tenemos muchas sugerencias para la fiesta.

We have many suggestions for the party.

Plural form 'sugerencias' with 'muchas'.

7

Nadie escuchó mi sugerencia.

Nobody listened to my suggestion.

Using the negative pronoun 'nadie'.

8

Es solo una sugerencia, no tienes que hacerlo.

It's just a suggestion, you don't have to do it.

'Solo' means 'just' or 'only' in this context.

1

Mi sugerencia es que hables con el profesor.

My suggestion is that you talk to the teacher.

Requires subjunctive 'hables' after 'es que'.

2

El jefe rechazó todas nuestras sugerencias.

The boss rejected all our suggestions.

Using the verb 'rechazar' (to reject) in the preterite.

3

Si tienes alguna sugerencia, dímelo.

If you have any suggestion, tell me.

Using 'alguna' and the imperative 'dímelo'.

4

Agradezco la sugerencia, pero ya tomé una decisión.

I appreciate the suggestion, but I already made a decision.

Using 'agradecer' (to appreciate/thank).

5

Dejamos una sugerencia en el buzón del hotel.

We left a suggestion in the hotel's suggestion box.

Preterite tense 'dejamos'.

6

La sugerencia del chef es excelente hoy.

The chef's suggestion is excellent today.

Common phrase in restaurants.

7

Te hago esta sugerencia como amigo.

I make this suggestion to you as a friend.

Using 'como' to mean 'in the capacity of'.

8

Necesitamos sugerencias constructivas, no quejas.

We need constructive suggestions, not complaints.

Contrasting 'sugerencias' with 'quejas' (complaints).

1

A modo de sugerencia, deberíamos revisar el contrato.

As a suggestion, we should review the contract.

The phrase 'A modo de sugerencia' is a formal way to introduce an idea.

2

El comité evaluará cada sugerencia detalladamente.

The committee will evaluate each suggestion in detail.

Future tense 'evaluará' and adverb 'detalladamente'.

3

Su sugerencia de que cambiemos de proveedor fue ignorada.

His suggestion that we change suppliers was ignored.

Subjunctive 'cambiemos' in a noun clause modifying 'sugerencia'.

4

Se aceptan sugerencias para mejorar el flujo de trabajo.

Suggestions are welcome to improve the workflow.

Passive voice with 'se' (Se aceptan).

5

Me atrevo a hacer una sugerencia un tanto arriesgada.

I dare to make a somewhat risky suggestion.

Using 'atreverse a' (to dare to) and 'un tanto' (somewhat).

6

La aplicación te da sugerencias basadas en tus gustos.

The app gives you suggestions based on your tastes.

Using 'basadas en' (based on) agreeing with feminine plural 'sugerencias'.

7

Tomaré tu sugerencia en consideración antes de decidir.

I will take your suggestion into consideration before deciding.

Formal phrase 'tomar en consideración'.

8

Fue una sugerencia muy acertada dadas las circunstancias.

It was a very spot-on suggestion given the circumstances.

Adjective 'acertada' means correct, spot-on, or wise.

1

Hizo caso omiso de mi sugerencia y fracasó estrepitosamente.

He ignored my suggestion and failed miserably.

Idiom 'hacer caso omiso de' means to completely ignore.

2

La sugerencia implícita en su discurso era bastante alarmante.

The implicit suggestion in his speech was quite alarming.

Using 'implícita' to describe a hidden or unstated suggestion.

3

Planteó la sugerencia con tal tacto que nadie se ofendió.

She raised the suggestion with such tact that no one was offended.

Using 'plantear' instead of 'hacer' for a more elevated register.

4

Las sugerencias del auditorio enriquecieron el debate posterior.

The suggestions from the audience enriched the subsequent debate.

Vocabulary: 'auditorio' (audience) and 'enriquecieron' (enriched).

5

Es imperativo que implementemos esta sugerencia a la brevedad.

It is imperative that we implement this suggestion as soon as possible.

Subjunctive 'implementemos' triggered by 'Es imperativo que'.

6

Su sugerencia rozaba la insolencia, pero tenía razón.

His suggestion bordered on insolence, but he was right.

Using 'rozar' (to border on/touch) metaphorically.

7

Recopilamos un sinfín de sugerencias a través de la encuesta.

We collected an endless number of suggestions through the survey.

Expression 'un sinfín de' means an endless amount or myriad.

8

La sugerencia velada del director nos puso a todos nerviosos.

The director's veiled suggestion made us all nervous.

'Velada' means veiled or thinly disguised.

1

La poesía de este autor destaca por su extraordinario poder de sugerencia.

This author's poetry stands out for its extraordinary power of suggestion.

'Poder de sugerencia' refers to the literary ability to evoke ideas.

2

Lejos de ser una imposición, se esgrimió como una mera sugerencia heurística.

Far from being an imposition, it was wielded as a mere heuristic suggestion.

Advanced vocabulary: 'esgrimió' (wielded/put forward) and 'heurística'.

3

Cualquier sugerencia en contrario será desestimada de plano por el tribunal.

Any suggestion to the contrary will be dismissed outright by the court.

Legal register: 'en contrario' and 'desestimada de plano'.

4

La sugerencia subyacente en su obra es la futilidad del esfuerzo humano.

The underlying suggestion in his work is the futility of human effort.

'Subyacente' means underlying or hidden beneath the surface.

5

Acogimos la sugerencia con beneplácito, dada la coyuntura económica.

We welcomed the suggestion with approval, given the economic situation.

Highly formal vocabulary: 'beneplácito' (approval) and 'coyuntura' (situation/juncture).

6

Esbozó una sugerencia tan sutil que pasó inadvertida para la mayoría.

He outlined a suggestion so subtle that it went unnoticed by most.

Verb 'esbozar' (to sketch/outline) used metaphorically.

7

La sugerencia de dimisión pendía sobre él como una espada de Damocles.

The suggestion of resignation hung over him like a sword of Damocles.

Literary idiom 'espada de Damocles' indicating an impending threat.

8

Su intervención no fue más que una amalgama de sugerencias inconexas.

His intervention was nothing more than an amalgam of disconnected suggestions.

Vocabulary: 'amalgama' (mixture/amalgam) and 'inconexas' (disconnected).

Collocations courantes

hacer una sugerencia
aceptar una sugerencia
rechazar una sugerencia
buzón de sugerencias
sugerencia constructiva
sugerencia práctica
pedir sugerencias
agradecer la sugerencia
sugerencia útil
sugerencia interesante

Phrases Courantes

¿Puedo hacer una sugerencia?

Mi sugerencia es que...

A modo de sugerencia

Se aceptan sugerencias

Libro de quejas y sugerencias

Tengo una sugerencia

Gracias por la sugerencia

Es solo una sugerencia

Tomar en cuenta una sugerencia

Ignorar una sugerencia

Souvent confondu avec

sugerencia vs consejo

sugerencia vs recomendación

sugerencia vs aviso

Expressions idiomatiques

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Facile à confondre

sugerencia vs

sugerencia vs

sugerencia vs

sugerencia vs

sugerencia vs

Structures de phrases

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Comment l'utiliser

note

While 'sugerencia' is highly versatile, be cautious not to overuse it when a stronger word like 'advertencia' (warning) or 'orden' (command) is necessary for safety or clarity.

Erreurs courantes
  • Using 'dar una sugerencia' instead of the correct 'hacer una sugerencia'.
  • Failing to use the subjunctive mood after 'Mi sugerencia es que...'.
  • Treating the word as masculine (e.g., saying 'un sugerencia' instead of 'una sugerencia').
  • Pronouncing the 'g' as a hard English 'g' instead of a soft 'h' sound.
  • Confusing 'sugerencia' (practical idea) with 'consejo' (deep, personal advice).

Astuces

Use 'Hacer', not 'Dar'

The most common mistake English speakers make is saying 'dar una sugerencia'. Always use 'hacer una sugerencia'. This is the natural collocation in Spanish. It will instantly make you sound more fluent.

Subjunctive Trigger

Remember the formula: 'Mi sugerencia es que' + subjunctive. If you are suggesting an action for someone else, the subjunctive is mandatory. For example, 'Mi sugerencia es que comas más sano'.

Polite Interruptions

Use '¿Puedo hacer una sugerencia?' to politely interrupt a discussion. It is a respectful way to insert your opinion. It works well in both formal meetings and casual chats.

The Suggestion Box

Familiarize yourself with the phrase 'buzón de sugerencias'. You will see it everywhere in Spanish-speaking countries. It's a great vocabulary word for business or travel contexts.

The Soft 'G'

Practice the 'g' sound in 'sugerencia'. It should sound like an English 'h'. Say 'su-he-ren-sia' out loud several times to build muscle memory.

Restaurant Menus

Look out for 'Sugerencia del chef' when dining out. It usually indicates the best or freshest dish available. It's a great way to try local specialties.

Feminine Agreement

Never forget that 'sugerencia' is feminine. Check your adjectives! It's 'una sugerencia constructiva', not 'un sugerencia constructivo'.

Accepting Suggestions

Learn phrases to accept suggestions gracefully. 'Es una excelente sugerencia' or 'Tomaré tu sugerencia en cuenta' are perfect responses. They show active listening and respect.

Rejecting Suggestions

Soften your rejections. Don't just say 'no'. Say 'Gracias por la sugerencia, pero prefiero otra cosa'. This maintains harmony, which is highly valued in Hispanic cultures.

Consejo vs. Sugerencia

Don't mix up 'consejo' and 'sugerencia'. Give a 'consejo' to a heartbroken friend. Give a 'sugerencia' to a team deciding on a software tool.

Mémorise-le

Moyen mnémotechnique

Think of SUGAR. A SUGERencia is like offering someone a sweet SUGAR cube of advice—it's a nice, polite suggestion, not a bitter command.

Origine du mot

Latin

Contexte culturel

'Sugerencia del chef' is the equivalent of 'Chef's special' in English-speaking restaurants.

The 'buzón de sugerencias' is culturally ubiquitous in Latin American and Spanish businesses and government offices.

Using 'sugerencia' is a key strategy for negative politeness in Spanish, minimizing the imposition on the hearer.

Pratique dans la vie réelle

Contextes réels

Amorces de conversation

"¿Tienes alguna sugerencia para el fin de semana?"

"Si pudieras hacer una sugerencia para mejorar la ciudad, ¿cuál sería?"

"¿Sueles dejar sugerencias en los restaurantes o tiendas?"

"¿Cuál es la mejor sugerencia que alguien te ha dado?"

"¿Cómo reaccionas cuando alguien rechaza tu sugerencia?"

Sujets d'écriture

Escribe sobre una vez que hiciste una sugerencia importante en el trabajo o la escuela.

¿Crees que los 'buzones de sugerencias' realmente funcionan? ¿Por qué?

Describe una situación en la que es mejor dar una sugerencia en lugar de una orden.

Escribe tres sugerencias para alguien que quiere aprender español.

Reflexiona sobre la diferencia entre un consejo y una sugerencia en tu propia vida.

Questions fréquentes

10 questions

While native speakers will understand you, it is not the standard or most natural way to say it. The correct and universally preferred phrase is 'hacer una sugerencia'. Using 'hacer' makes your Spanish sound much more authentic. Avoid translating directly from the English 'to give a suggestion'. Stick to 'hacer'.

Not always, but it does when you are suggesting that someone else perform an action. For example, 'Mi sugerencia es que vayas' (My suggestion is that you go) requires the subjunctive 'vayas'. However, if you use an infinitive, you don't need the subjunctive: 'Mi sugerencia es ir al cine' (My suggestion is to go to the movies).

A 'sugerencia' is a simple idea or proposal put forward for consideration, like suggesting a restaurant. A 'consejo' is advice, which usually carries more weight, wisdom, or personal investment, like advising a friend on a life decision. 'Sugerencias' are often practical, while 'consejos' are often moral or personal.

The 'g' in 'sugerencia' is pronounced like the English 'h' in 'hat', but slightly more guttural. It is the same sound as the 'j' in 'jalapeño'. Do not pronounce it like the hard 'g' in the English word 'go'. The phonetic spelling is su-he-ren-sia.

'Sugerencia' is a feminine noun. You must use feminine articles like 'la' or 'una', and any adjectives describing it must also be feminine, such as 'buena' or 'mala'. For example, you say 'una buena sugerencia', never 'un buen sugerencia'.

A 'buzón de sugerencias' translates to 'suggestion box'. It is a physical box or a digital form used by businesses, schools, and organizations to collect feedback, ideas, and complaints from customers or employees. It is a very common phrase in the Spanish-speaking corporate world.

Yes, absolutely. 'Sugerencia' is appropriate for all registers, from casual conversations to highly formal academic or business writing. In formal contexts, you might pair it with more elevated verbs like 'plantear' (to propose) or 'presentar' (to present) instead of just 'hacer'.

To be polite, you should first acknowledge the suggestion before rejecting it. You can say, 'Agradezco tu sugerencia, pero...' (I appreciate your suggestion, but...) or 'Es una buena sugerencia, sin embargo...' (It's a good suggestion, however...). This softens the rejection and maintains a good relationship.

'Sugerencia del chef' means 'chef's suggestion' or 'chef's special'. You will frequently see this phrase on restaurant menus or hear it from waiters. It refers to a dish that the chef highly recommends, often because it uses fresh, seasonal ingredients or is a specialty of the house.

No, they are false friends in some contexts. 'Sugerencia' means a proposal or piece of advice. 'Sugestión', while it can sometimes mean suggestion in a psychological sense (like hypnosis or the power of suggestion), is not used for everyday ideas or proposals. Always use 'sugerencia' for practical ideas.

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