Language of the Day: Giving Advice Using Modal Verbs
Giving and receiving advice is something that we regularly do in both professional and personal setting. Learn about about how to use modal verbs to give advice.
Modal verbs such as can, may, might, be able to, could, would, and should are auxiliary or helping verbs that are combined with other verbs to express ability, possibility, permission or necessity.
Should is the modal verb that is most associated with giving advice, but other examples using different modal verbs are also provided below.
One very important point to note is that many of us do not appreciate it when other people give us unsolicited advice, also know as free advice.
Free advice is not requested or asked for and it can also be insensitive and rude to act like you know about another person’s life or circumstances than they do.
Here are some examples of unsolicited advice for your reference, but please refrain from giving free advice when it isn’t appropriate!!
“You should eat less sweets” or “I think you should buy a new phone because your current phone looks old.”
Here are some examples of how to both give and ask for advice appropriately using the modal verbs, should, would and could.
“I think you should see a doctor. Even if it isn’t anything serious, it’s worth it to get checked.”
“You should check out this movie! I know you love horror movies so you would really like it.”
“In my opinion, you should tell your boss that you can’t take on any more hours.”
“If I were you, I would text him again and ask for clarification.”
“You should try drinking some hot tea with ginger, lemon, and honey. It always helps me when I’m feeling under the weather.”
“After reviewing your account, I have determined that you could transfer funds to a savings account or you could invest in stocks.”
“Could I give you some feedback? I think the design would be even better if you added a pop of colour.”
“You should consider buying a bike rather than renting it. I’m sure you would love it.”
“I could try to ask my teacher if I could submit the assignment later, but she might not agree. What should I do?”
“If you were me, would you wait for a response or would you send another email?”
“Do you think I should take the job offer even though it would be a long commute?”