Translation guide
In Japanese, expressing 'advice' depends heavily on the situation. Direct translations like 助言 (jogen) exist but can sound formal or stiff. More commonly, you'll use verbs like 相談する (soudan suru) for 'asking for advice', or give suggestions using patterns like 〜たほうがいい (ta hou ga ii). The key is to match the level of directness and formality to your relationship with the listener.
Can I ask for your advice?
Thanks for the advice.
The speaker wants to seek guidance or an opinion from someone.
The most natural way to say 'ask for advice' or 'consult'. It implies a two-way discussion.
I have something I'd like to get your advice on.
I don't know who to ask for advice.
Literally 'receive advice'. Common in casual conversation, especially among younger people.
I got some advice from a senior colleague.
Formal expression for 'seek advice'. Used in official or written contexts.
The speaker wants to recommend a course of action to someone.
The most common way to say 'you should...' or 'it's better to...'. Attach to the past tense plain form of a verb.
Referring to a specific suggestion or recommendation.
Acting on someone's suggestion.
Means 'to follow advice'. Natural in both casual and polite speech.
Avoid directly translating 'give advice' as アドバイスをあげる, which can sound condescending. Use アドバイスをする or rephrase with 〜たほうがいい.
I'll give you some advice. (can sound patronizing)
助言 (jogen) is formal and often used in professional or written contexts. アドバイス (adobaisu) is casual and common in everyday speech. For most learners, アドバイス is the safer, more natural choice.
I sought advice from an expert.
You should go to bed early. (advice)
I think you should apologize to him.
A casual way to say 'why don't you...?'. Softens the suggestion into a question.
Why don't you ask the teacher? (advice)
Directly means 'to give advice'. Natural in casual settings, but can sound slightly direct.
Maybe it's not something I can give advice on.
A formal noun meaning 'advice'. Often used with する (to advise) or 与える (to give advice).
I received appropriate advice from my boss.
The loanword is very common for a specific piece of advice, especially in casual speech.
Thanks for the good advice.
His advice is always helpful.
More formal than アドバイス. Suitable for business or serious topics.
Thank you for your valuable advice.
Implies a warning or cautionary advice. Stronger than 助言.
You must not ignore the doctor's advice.
I followed his advice and prepared early.
Literally 'do as (someone) says'. Very common for following verbal advice.
You should do as your mother says. (follow her advice)