A suggestion is an act of giving another individual an idea or a recommendation on what to do. It involves expressing our opinion on the matter. Make suggestions to share your thoughts, ideas and offer other possibilities, whether brainstorming in an office meeting or discussing exciting topics with friends. There are many ways to make suggestions, offers, and invitations. In this article, we are going to cover the most commonly used phrases.
When you use “Let’s” to make a suggestion, you must add a verb to indicate the suggestion. (Let’s + verb)
For Example,
Let’s go for a walk.
Let’s play guitar.
Let’s do the dishes.
Let’s take a bath.
Let’s watch Titanic.
When you use “how/ what about,” make sure you add ing-form, not infinitive form. (How/what about + ing)
How about taking an extra set of coke?
How about going to the gym?
What about playing piano?
What about watching a movie?
“Why not” needs the infinitive form of the following verb to make a suggestion (why not + verb)
For Example,
Why not arrange the birthday party
Why not visit uncle Daniel?
Why not take a rest?
Why not go to the park?
“Shall we” also requires an infinitive form. It makes suggestions, invitations, offers, promises, instructions, and advice.
For Example,
Shall we go to the beach?
Shall we attend the marriage ceremony?
Shall we play football in the evening?
When you use “Why don’t we/you” to make a suggestion, add a verb in present simple.
For Example,
Why don’t we meet in the library?
Why don’t you take the bus? It’s not so far.
Why don’t we go to the concert?
Could
When using “could,” you’re giving more than one option.
Structure: (could + verb)
For Example,
You could exercise more often if you want to be healthier.
We could go to the theatre if you want.
We could watch movies all night or study for exams.
You could do way better than that.
It is used to make a suggestion directly to the person that will do the work. (Suggest + gerund/noun)
For Example,
I suggest going to Japan for a vacation
I suggest that you study English more
We suggest chocolate cake for Anna’s birthday party.
It is used to invite someone to do something. (Do you fancy + gerund/noun)
For Example,
Do you fancy some wine?
Do you fancy having dinner?
Do you fancy going on vacation to Europe?
This is a polite way to suggest something or invite someone.
For Example,
Would you like to have lunch with me?
Would you consider the other options as well?
Would you please close my room door?
Ok, let’s do it
We use this when we strongly agree to go with the suggestion made by the other person.
For Example,
A: Let’s make some sandwiches for breakfast
B: Ok, let’s do it.
When someone makes a suggestion, we already need, we respond with “yes, please.”
For Example,
A: You should drink a coffee; I will buy it.
B: Yes, please. Thank you.
We use ‘I’d love to” when we like the suggestion made by someone.
For examples,
A: Let’s go to the beach in the afternoon.
B: I’d love to go with you.
It is used to respond when you want to take part in or get involved in an action.
For Example,
A: Do you want to join us for the after-party?
B: Count me in. I’ll be there.
“That sounds great” is used to respond to someone that their idea or suggestion is excellent.
For Example,
A: Do you fancy steak with champagne?
B: Sure! That sounds great.
Before rejecting or declining someone’s opinion or suggestion, do it politely so the other person doesn’t get offended.
Use it when you have different opinions or are unsure about the suggestion.
For Example,
A: How about white curtains in the corner window?
B: I’m not sure about that. Maroon will look incredible.
We use “I’d rather not” when we don’t want to do or say something.
For Example,
A: Let’s go to the pub and dance all night
B: I’d rather not.
This is a polite way to decline someone’s idea, which is not bad but also no good.
For Example,
A: I suggest you apply for a new job.
B: That’s not a bad idea, but I love my current job.
When someone suggests doing something that you don’t like, you say, “No, Let’s not.”
For Example,
A: We should hang out more often.
B: No, let’s not.
Why don’t you come out of your room?
I don’t feel like coming out.
People use “I don’t think I can” when they are unable to do anything in the situation.
For Example,
A: Could you please submit all the papers before tomorrow?
B: I don’t think I can. I already have many works.
We say, “It’s not my cup of tea” when something does not match our taste.
For Example,
A: We should watch a football game sometime
B: Thanks for the invite, but it’s not my cup of tea.
Making, accepting, and rejecting suggestions in English takes more practice. If you want to speak English fluently, you should master these phrases to sound like a native speaker. Want more lessons like this? Start your English-speaking journey with us and be fluent in English. Sign up with your email ID for regular updates on our insightful blogs.
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