1. Overview:
The verb "suggest" is used to give an idea or recommendation. It helps you express what you think someone should do. There are three main ways to use "suggest": with a gerund, with a that-clause, and with a noun.
2. Cases of Usage:
Case 1: "Suggest" + Verb-ing (Gerund)
When you want to suggest an action, you can use "suggest" followed by a verb in its -ing form (gerund).
Example: I suggest going to the park.
Case 2: "Suggest" + That + Subject + (Base Form of the Verb)
You can also use "suggest" followed by "that" and the base form of the verb. This structure is often used to make recommendations.
Example: She suggests that he studies / study harder.
Case 3: "Suggest" + Noun (Direct Object)
You can use "suggest" with a noun to recommend something specific.
Example: They suggest a new restaurant for dinner.
3. Things to Pay Attention To:
When using "suggest," remember that the gerund form is always used with "suggest" in informal speech. However, in formal contexts, using "that" with the base form is more common.
Examples:
Informal: I suggest visiting the museum.
Formal: I suggest that you visit the museum.
When using "suggest" with a "that"-clause, the verb following "that" can be in the base form (the subjunctive mood), regardless of the subject.
This means you can use forms like "speak," "go," or "be" instead of their indicative equivalents ("speaks," "goes," "is").
Example: She suggested that he speak to the teacher.
4. Additional Notes:
Common mistakes include using "to" after "suggest." For example, saying "I suggest to go" is incorrect. Instead, you should say "I suggest going."
