What does suggestion mean?
A suggestion is an idea, recommendation, or piece of advice offered to someone for consideration or action. It is often informal and can range from a practical suggestion about organizing a task to a proposed change involving a group or organization. In other contexts, “suggestion” means a subtle indication or implication, as when a speaker's tone suggests dissatisfaction. The word can also have a specialized meaning in psychology and related fields, referring to an attempt to influence a person's thoughts or behavior. “Make a suggestion” is the most common everyday expression, while “at someone's suggestion” identifies an action performed because another person proposed it. Compared with “proposal,” a suggestion is usually less formal and more readily associated with advice or an idea rather than a detailed plan.
An idea, proposal, recommendation, or piece of advice offered for consideration or action.
"The director accepted the suggestion to revise the proposal."
This is the most common modern meaning.
A slight indication or implication of something.
"There was a suggestion in his reply that he was not satisfied with the results."
Often used with phrases such as “a suggestion of” or “suggestion that,” and more formal than the everyday sense of advice.
The act of influencing a person's thoughts, feelings, or behavior, especially without the person fully examining the influence.
"The technique relies on suggestion rather than direct persuasion."
This sense is chiefly used in psychology, advertising, and related discussion.
The plural is formed by adding -s to the singular.
"The team considered several suggestions before choosing a name."
From its Latin roots meaning “to put under,” a suggestion began as something placed in the mind for another person to consider.
Reviewed by Deb Chak, Editor. AI-assisted content curated by RJS Tech Solutions LLP.
Where does suggestion come from?
The word entered English in the late Middle English period through French suggestion, which came from Latin suggestio, a noun derived from suggerere, “to put under” or “bring to mind.” Latin suggerere was formed from sub-, meaning “under,” and gerere, meaning “to carry” or “bring.” The development from the idea of placing something before someone's mind led to the modern meanings of proposing an idea and indicating or implying something.
Related word forms
How suggestion is actually used
In everyday use, “suggestion” usually means a recommendation or proposed idea. In psychology and related fields, it can refer to the influence exerted on a person's thoughts or behavior, often with the implication that the person accepts that influence without full conscious deliberation.
Easily confused with suggestion
A suggestion is an idea or piece of advice offered informally, while a proposal is typically a more formal plan or proposed course of action.