Making Suggestions

I think you should buy the blue one.

That's a good idea.

I don't think you should sell your car.

Thanks for the advice, but I really need the money.

Maybe we should stop here.

I'd rather continue, if you don't mind.

Let's go bowling tonight.

Sorry, I can't. I'm meeting a friend for dinner.

Why don't we go skiing on Saturday?

Sounds like a good idea. Where do you want to go?

Why don't you come with me to China?

Thanks, but I've already been there.

Why not give it to charity?

That's a great idea. Why didn't I think of that?

Most people do not like to be told what to do. Avoid saying "You should…" (It sounds very strong.) It is better to soften the command with "maybe" or "I think you should" so that it sounds more like a suggestion.

Notes: The most common way to express a negative suggestion or opinion in English is "I don't think…" rather than "I think… not.."

Why don't…? and Why not…? appear negative, but they are actually positive suggestions, meaning "I suggest that…"

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