SpeakUp

Grammar fix

make a suggestion

suggest

to offer an idea or plan for someone to consider, especially in a discussion or meeting.

collocationB1common

Hear it in context

Notice where the phrase sounds natural.

  • Can I make a suggestion? Maybe we should try a different restaurant tonight.communication
  • In group discussions, I often make a suggestion to help the team find a solution more quickly.IELTS speaking

Fix the pattern

Pattern: make a suggestion (about/on something) | make a suggestion that + clause

WrongCan I give a suggestion?

RightCan I make a suggestion?

You MAKE a suggestion (or recommendation); 'give a suggestion' sounds off.

Patternmake a suggestion (about/on something) | make a suggestion that + clause

Use it right

Choose the version that sounds natural in speech.

Stiff May I put forward a suggestion regarding the schedule?

Natural Can I make a suggestion about the schedule?

Natives 'make a suggestion'; 'put forward a suggestion' is meeting-formal.

Build natural chunks

Words that usually travel with it.

  • make a suggestion
    makea helpful suggestionif I maya few suggestions

Don't confuse it

Compare with 'give advice'—'make a suggestion' is usually softer and less direct.

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