Correct usage of the verb suggest

Suggest is a common verb in English. To suggest is to offer an idea or plan for someone to consider.

• She suggested consulting a doctor.
• He suggested some solutions to the problem.

Suggest cannot be followed by a to-infinitive. It has to be followed by a that-clause, an –ing form or a noun.

• He suggested that I should apply for that job.
• OR He suggested applying for that job.
• The dentist suggested that I should change my toothpaste.
• OR The dentist suggested changing the toothpaste.
• I suggest that we have dinner first.
• Are you suggesting that I did this on purpose?

Suggest can be followed by what, why or where.

• Can you suggest what we should do to regain our competitive advantage?
• In case there is a problem we suggest contacting our support team.

The verb ‘suggest’ is frequently used with the adverbs seriously, strongly, tentatively, politely, respectfully and tactfully.

• Can you suggest a movie that I can watch with my children?
• Studies have clearly suggested a link between asthma and environmental pollution.
• The doctor suggested taking a long holiday. (NOT The doctor suggested to take a long holiday.)
• The advocate suggested that I should talk to a counselor.

Suggest cannot be followed by a personal object. If there is an object, it should be preceded by the preposition ‘to’.

• If your child failed an important exam, what would you suggest to him? (NOT … what would you suggest him?)
• The principal suggested to dads that they should play an active role in bringing up their children.