CWClearWord Lab

Confusing Words

Advice vs Advise

Advice is a noun (a suggestion); advise is a verb (to give a suggestion).

Quick Answer

Use 'advice' when you talk about the suggestion itself (a thing). Use 'advise' when you talk about the action of giving a suggestion.

Core Difference

Advice is a noun (what you give); advise is a verb (the act of giving).

Simple Explanation

Advice and advise are often confused because they sound similar. 'Advice' (with a 'c') is a noun. It means an opinion or suggestion about what to do. For example, 'She gave me good advice.' 'Advise' (with an 's') is a verb. It means to give advice. For example, 'I advise you to study more.' Notice that 'advise' is pronounced with a /z/ sound, while 'advice' has an /s/ sound.

Word Details

advice

noun

an opinion or suggestion about what someone should do

give advicetake advicesome advicea piece of advice

advise

verb

to give advice to someone

advise someoneadvise someone to do somethingadvise against

Examples

advice

My father gave me good advice about money.

Advice is a thing (noun).

advice

Can you give me some advice?

You ask for a suggestion.

advice

I need a piece of advice.

We often say 'a piece of advice' because advice is uncountable.

advise

I advise you to see a doctor.

Advise is an action (verb).

advise

She advised me to apply for the job.

Past tense: advised.

advise

The lawyer advised against signing the contract.

Advise against means recommend not to do something.

Practice Quiz

Choose one answer. Mistakes are saved for review.

1. Can you give me some ______?

2. I ______ you to take the train.

3. She followed her mother's ______.

4. The doctor ______ him to rest.

5. Let me give you a piece of ______.

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