What context can I use each word in?
Learn when and how to use these words with these examples!
suggest
Example
I suggest we go to the beach this weekend. [suggest: verb]
Example
The tone of his voice suggested that he was not happy with the decision. [suggested: past tense]
Example
She suggested that we take a break and come back to the problem later. [suggested: past participle]
imply
Example
He implied that he knew more than he was letting on. [implied: past tense]
Example
The article implies that the company is facing financial difficulties. [implies: present tense]
Example
Her tone of voice implied that she was not happy with the situation. [implied: past participle]
Good things to know
Which word is more common?
Suggest is more commonly used in everyday language, while imply is more commonly used in academic or technical writing.
What’s the difference in the tone of formality between suggest and imply?
Imply is generally considered more formal than suggest, as it is often used in academic or technical writing. However, both words can be used in formal and informal contexts.
