Advice or Advise
Which Spelling is Correct?
Understanding the difference between Advice or Advise these commonly confused spellings and how to use them properly.
Correct: Advice
"Advice" is the correct spelling for the noun form. It means guidance or recommendations.
Correct: Advise
"Advise" is the correct spelling for the verb form. It means to give guidance or recommendations.
Definitions
Advice (Noun)
Advice (noun): Guidance or recommendations offered with regard to prudent future action; counsel or suggestions about what someone should do.
Examples:
- • She gave me good advice about the job.
- • I need some advice on this matter.
- • His advice was very helpful.
- • Follow the doctor's advice.
Advise (Verb)
Advise (verb): To give guidance or recommendations to someone about what they should do; to counsel or suggest a course of action.
Examples:
- • I advise you to study harder.
- • The doctor advised rest and fluids.
- • She advised against the risky investment.
- • They advised me to wait.
Synonyms
Synonyms for Advice (Noun)
- • Guidance
- • Counsel
- • Recommendation
- • Suggestion
- • Tip
- • Direction
- • Instruction
- • Wisdom
Synonyms for Advise (Verb)
- • Counsel
- • Guide
- • Recommend
- • Suggest
- • Direct
- • Instruct
- • Warn
- • Inform
Usage Notes
Important Points:
- • Advice (noun) ends with 'ce' and refers to the guidance itself.
- • Advise (verb) ends with 'se' and refers to the action of giving guidance.
- • Think: "I give you advice" or "I advise you".
- • Both words are commonly used in formal and informal contexts.
- • The words come from the Old French "avis" meaning "opinion."
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: When do I use "advice" or "advise"?
A: Use "advice" (noun) when referring to the guidance itself: "I need advice." Use "advise" (verb) when referring to the action of giving guidance: "I advise you to study."
Q: How do I remember the difference?
A: Think of the spelling: "advice" (noun) has 'ice' like "ice" - something you can hold. "Advise" (verb) has 'ise' like "realise" - an action you do.
Q: Can "advice" be used as a verb?
A: No, "advice" is only a noun. The verb form is always "advise." You cannot say "I advice you" - it should be "I advise you."
Q: Can "advise" be used as a noun?
A: No, "advise" is only a verb. The noun form is always "advice." You cannot say "I need advise" - it should be "I need advice."
Q: What's the difference between "advice" and "recommendation"?
A: "Advice" is more general guidance or counsel, while "recommendation" is a specific suggestion for a particular course of action. Advice is broader, recommendations are more specific.
Q: Why do people often confuse these words?
A: People confuse them because they sound very similar and have related meanings. The spelling difference ('ce' or 'se') is subtle and easy to miss.
Q: What are some common phrases using these words?
A: Common phrases include: give advice, seek advice, take advice, advice column, legal advice, financial advice, advise against, advise on, and advise someone to do something.
Q: Can these words be used in formal writing?
A: Yes, both words are appropriate in formal writing. They are standard English words that can be used in academic, business, legal, and professional contexts.
Summary
Remember: Advice (noun) ends with 'ce' and refers to the guidance itself. Advise (verb) ends with 'se' and refers to the action of giving guidance. Use "advice" when you need guidance, and use "advise" when you are giving guidance to someone else.