10 Ways to Make a Suggestion
Learning how to make a suggestion is one of the most useful skills for real-life English conversation. Whether you’re planning a trip with friends, discussing a project at work, or just choosing a restaurant, you need to know how to offer your ideas clearly. This lesson will teach you 10 practical ways to suggest something without sounding bossy or rude, so you can join in any conversation with confidence!
Common Ways to Make a Suggestion
Polite & Neutral
- I suggest that we…
This is a formal and very direct way to give an idea. Use it when you need to be clear, especially in work or school settings.
I suggest that we wait until the morning to make a final decision. - Perhaps we could…
A very polite and gentle way to offer an option. It sounds like you are carefully considering possibilities.
Perhaps we could try calling the other store to see if they have it in stock. - How about (+ verb-ing or noun)?
A simple, flexible, and common phrase. You use the ‘-ing’ form of a verb or a noun after ‘about.’
How about ordering a pizza tonight? We’re all hungry! - I recommend…
This is strong advice, suggesting something based on your experience or knowledge. Often used for places, books, or services.
I recommend the seafood pasta; it’s the best dish here. - Have you considered…?
This shows you are thinking deeply about the topic and want to introduce a new idea the other person might not have thought of.
Have you considered taking the train instead of driving all that way?
Casual & Common
- Let’s (+ verb)…
A very common, short, and friendly way to make a suggestion to a group you know well. It’s short for “Let us.”
Let’s go to the park now before it starts raining. - Why don’t we/you…?
This is a super popular way to suggest something, even though it’s a question. It’s used for friendly ideas and plans.
Why don’t you try asking your teacher for extra help? - What if we…?
This phrase introduces a hypothetical or new approach. It’s great for brainstorming and thinking outside the box.
What if we painted the wall blue instead of white? It would look brighter!
Playful & Expressive
- My vote is for…
This is a fun, casual way to express your preference when a group is choosing between options. It’s often used when choosing food, movies, or activities.
We have three options. My vote is for the action movie tonight! - Shall we…?
A slightly more traditional or charming way to make a suggestion, often used in the UK but understood everywhere. It sounds a little more thoughtful than “Let’s.”
Shall we get started with the presentation now that everyone is here?
Real-Life Dialogues
Sarah: I’m not sure where we should meet to discuss the project.
Ben: I suggest that we meet at the new coffee shop downtown. It has fast Wi-Fi.
Sarah: That’s a good idea! How about 2 PM tomorrow?
Maria: This movie is a little boring. Why don’t we just watch something else?
Tom: Oh, what if we finished this one later and played a video game instead?
Maria: My vote is for that idea! I need something more exciting.
Manager: We need a new way to organize this file cabinet.
Employee: Perhaps we could try sorting them by date instead of by color.
Manager: Hmm, have you considered using a completely digital system instead?
Quick Tips: Choosing the Right Phrase
| Situation | Recommended Expression | Why? |
|---|---|---|
| Suggesting a dinner choice to friends (casual). | Let’s get tacos! | It’s friendly, quick, and shows you want to do the activity together. |
| Giving an idea in a business meeting (formal/polite). | I suggest that we… | This is the most direct and professional way to introduce a serious idea. |
| Offering a creative or unexpected solution (casual). | What if we…? | It shows you are introducing a new idea for the group to consider. |
| Asking your roommate about a plan for the evening (common). | Why don’t we…? | A super-common, easy, and non-demanding way to ask what to do. |
Practice Tip
For the next few days, try to make a suggestion to a friend or co-worker using a different phrase from this list each time. This active practice will help you remember the phrases and use them naturally.
Why This Matters
- It shows respect: Using polite suggestion phrases like “Perhaps we could…” shows you value the other person’s opinion and makes you sound thoughtful.
- It helps you lead: Being able to clearly make a suggestion is essential for organizing activities, starting plans, and taking charge when needed.
- You avoid confusion: These clear phrases make sure your listeners understand that you are offering an idea, not giving an order or stating a fact.
You now have a great toolbox of phrases to offer your ideas in English! The best way to learn is to practice, so don’t be shy. Use “Why don’t we…?” or “I suggest that we…” in your next conversation. Your English will sound much more natural and confident right away.
Happy learning! 😊