Advise/Recommend

Question

I recommend you watch this movie.I advise you to watch this movie.Which option is correct? Or are they synonyms? If so, which option is most used?

CalifJim · Accepted Answer

red train 520
I recommend (that) you watch this movie.
I advise you to watch this movie.
Which option is correct? Or are they synonyms? If so, which option is most used?

Personally, I prefer 'that' after 'recommend', but your version is not wrong.

They are not synonyms.

I recommend that ... says that I think you will like the movie or that you will learn something from it. You are telling someone that they will have a good experience if they watch the movie.

I advise you to ... says that you should watch the movie, that you ought to watch the movie. You are telling someone what you think they need to do for their own good.

For something like watching a movie (a less serious pursuit), the word "recommend" is usually the better choice.

For something like apologizing to a teacher or manager (more serious), the word "advise" is usually better.

I recommend that you go to "Dan's Restaurant" and order the macaroni and cheese.
I advise you to see a good lawyer if you're thinking of asking for a divorce.

CJ

Advise/Recommend

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