suggest & recommend
Two verbs with traps that catch even advanced learners.
The rules
- "Suggest + -ing", NEVER "suggest to go".
- "Suggest" never takes "person + to": use "suggest that + person + verb".
- "Recommend + -ing": "recommend visiting".
- Formal subjunctive after "recommend that": base form "take" for all persons.
- "Suggest (that) + clause": "suggest we take".
- Suggestion formula: "Why don't we + verb?"
Examples
- She suggested going to the new Thai place.
- He suggested that I apply.
- I recommend visiting the museum early to avoid queues.
- The doctor recommended that he take more exercise.
- I suggest we take a break.
- Why don't we split the bill?
Quick check
Pick an answer to see the rule behind it.
1.She suggested _____ to the new Thai place.
2.Which sentence is correct?
3.I recommend _____ the museum early to avoid queues.
4.The doctor recommended that he _____ more exercise.
5.Which is a natural way to make a suggestion in conversation?