Translation guide
The English verb "suggest" covers several distinct meanings: proposing an idea, implying something indirectly, and recommending a course of action. Japanese uses different words and patterns for each.
To put forward an idea, plan, or possibility for others to consider, often in a meeting or discussion.
The most direct and common translation for proposing a concrete idea or plan. Suitable for both formal and informal settings.
新しいプロジェクトを提案しました。
I suggested a new project.
He suggested a change at the meeting.
Noun form of 提案する. Often used with する or as a standalone noun.
何か提案はありますか？
Do you have any suggestions?
A common pattern for making a suggestion in a polite, indirect way. Literally 'How about doing ~?'
もう一度考えてみてはどうですか。
I suggest you think about it again.
Similar to 〜てはどうですか, but slightly more casual. Used for suggesting a course of action.
彼に直接聞いてみたらどうですか。
Why don't you try asking him directly?
To communicate an idea or feeling without stating it directly; to indicate something indirectly.
Formal word for implying or hinting at something, often used in serious contexts like politics or research.
そのデータは問題があることを示唆している。
The data suggests that there is a problem.
To hint at or insinuate, often in a subtle or indirect manner. Can be used in personal conversations.
彼は辞職をほのめかした。
He hinted that he would resign.
A pattern meaning 'it seems that ~', often used to suggest an impression without asserting it strongly.
彼は何か隠しているように思われる。
It suggests that he is hiding something.
To tell someone what you think they should do, often based on your own experience or knowledge.
The standard verb for recommending something to someone. Can be used for suggesting a course of action, a product, or a place.
医者は私に運動を勧めた。
The doctor suggested (recommended) that I exercise.
このレストランをお勧めします。
I suggest this restaurant.
A very common pattern for giving advice or suggesting what someone should do. Literally 'it's better to ~'.
早く寝た方がいいよ。
I suggest you go to bed early.
Casual way to suggest something, often based on personal experience. 'It would be good if you ~'.
この本を読むといいよ。
I suggest you read this book.
To make someone think of something because of an association or resemblance.
To cause someone to associate one thing with another; to evoke an image or idea.
その音楽は夏を連想させる。
The music suggests summer.
To make someone think or feel a certain way; to give the impression of.
その絵は悲しみを思わせる。
The painting suggests sadness.
提案する is for proposing an idea or plan, often in a group setting. 勧める is for recommending a specific action or thing to someone, often based on personal judgment. Use 提案する for 'I suggest we do X' and 勧める for 'I suggest you do X'.
会議の時間を変更することを提案します。
I suggest changing the meeting time.
この薬を勧めます。
I suggest this medicine.
English often uses 'suggest that + clause'. In Japanese, this structure does not directly translate. Instead, use patterns like 〜てはどうですか, 〜方がいい, or rephrase with 提案する/勧める plus a noun or quoted clause.
彼に相談してみてはどうですか。
I suggest that you consult him.
休憩を取りませんか。
I suggest we take a break.
Using a negative question is a natural way to suggest an action.