Poznan University of Technology
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Mistakes are often made with the verbs ‘suggest’ and ‘recommend’. Study the following explanation. 

SUGGEST / RECOMMEND + noun phrase

• She recommended a new supplier (to the manager).

SUGGEST / RECOMMEND + -ing form of the verb + clause

We use this form when we mention an action but not who will do it because it is understood in the context.

• I suggest postponing the meeting until we have more information.
• We recommend increasing the project team to deal with the changes.

SUGGEST / RECOMMEND + that + clause

We use this when we mention who should do the action. There are different verb forms which can be used after that:

• The manager suggested that she should take a few days off. (should + infinitive verb)
• The manager suggested that she takes a few days off. (ordinary present tense)
• The manager suggested that she take a few days off. (subjunctive form which has no -s in the third person singular; this is a more formal style).

In informal use, that can be left out of the sentence.

To practise these structures, click the ENTER button below.