make a suggestion — suggest
collocationB1IELTS 5+neutralcommon
to offer an idea or plan for someone to consider, especially in a discussion or meeting.
Say it like a native
Textbook May I put forward a suggestion regarding the schedule?
Native Can I make a suggestion about the schedule?
Natives 'make a suggestion'; 'put forward a suggestion' is meeting-formal.
Pattern: make a suggestion (about/on something) | make a suggestion that + clause
In use
- 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
Common mistake
✗ Can I give a suggestion?
✓ Can I make a suggestion?
You MAKE a suggestion (or recommendation); 'give a suggestion' sounds off.
Common collocations
make a suggestion— make, a helpful suggestion, if I may, a few suggestions
Don't confuse it
Compare with 'give advice'—'make a suggestion' is usually softer and less direct.