July 27, 2010

Give Advice or Advise?

When do I use the correct word in a sentence?

Let’s start with the definitions of each term.  The meaning according to Merriam Webster,

• advice – (noun) recommendation regarding a decision or course of conduct
• advise – (verb) to give advice to; to give information or notice to

A common mistake is using ‘advise’ as a noun, while ‘advice’ is used as a verb.  The use of these words is not interchangeable.

WRONG: I need your advise.

CORRECT: I need your advice.

WRONG: Please advice me.

CORRECT: Please advise me.

Unfortunately there is no clear trick to distinguish when to use which word.  Your only option is to remember that one is a noun while the other is a verb. Below are some more examples of the correct usage of the words ‘advice’ and ‘advise.’

Usage as a noun:

“She offered me an excellent advice.”

“Can you think of any advice to offer our visitors?”

“Could you give me some advice?”

Usage as a verb:

“I advise you not to jump in the pool.”

“Can you advise me about my performance.”

“Would you advise me on the perils of smoking?”

Filed under Article Writing