suggesting

word · lemma: suggest

/səˈdʒɛstɪŋ/
suh-JES-ting
/sədʒˈɛstɪŋ/
suh-JES-ting

Definition

Present participle of 'suggest'. It means giving an idea, advice, or possible plan, and it can also mean indirectly showing or hinting that something may be true.

Usage & Nuances

Often followed by a noun, '-ing' form, or a 'that' clause: 'suggesting a plan', 'suggesting going early', 'suggesting that we leave'. It is softer than 'telling' or 'ordering'. It can also mean 'hinting' in contexts like 'His tone was suggesting he was upset'.

Example Sentences

She is suggesting a new place for lunch.

basic

Are you suggesting that we leave now?

basic

His face was suggesting that he was tired.

basic

I'm not suggesting we cancel the trip, just that we wait a day.

natural

It sounds like you're suggesting I made a mistake.

natural

She kept suggesting little changes until the design felt right.

natural