Translation guide
How to express the idea of a suggestion in Japanese, from casual hints to formal proposals.
To propose an idea or course of action in everyday conversation.
A very common casual pattern meaning 'How about doing ~?' or 'Why don't you ~?'. Used with the plain past (ta-form) of a verb.
How about going to a movie?
Why don't you rest a bit?
A shorter, casual suggestion pattern using the conditional form. Often used with いいんじゃない (isn't it good?).
A noun meaning 'proposal' or 'suggestion'. More formal than the patterns above. Often used in business contexts.
To propose an idea politely, in a business or formal setting.
A polite way to say 'How about ~?' or 'Would you like to ~?'. Used with the te-form of a verb.
To express a suggestion that is not stated directly, often to be tactful.
A noun meaning 'hint', 'suggestion', or 'implication'. Used when something is suggested indirectly.
To suggest a course of action as advice.
To refer to a suggestion in the context of feedback or improvement.
Means 'opinion' or 'suggestion'. Commonly used for feedback.
提案 (teian) is a direct, concrete proposal, while 示唆 (shisa) is an indirect hint or implication. Use 提案 for clear suggestions and 示唆 when something is merely suggested without being stated outright.
I proposed a new project.
That's an interesting suggestion.
Why don't you try asking?
いい提案ですね。
That's a good suggestion.
How about having some tea?
How about reading this book?
Similar to 〜てはいかがですか, but uses the ta-form. Slightly more indirect and polite.
Why don't you try it once?
The honorific form of 提案, used when referring to someone else's suggestion respectfully.
Thank you for your suggestion.
彼の言葉には重要な示唆が含まれていた。
His words contained an important suggestion.
A verb meaning 'to hint at' or 'to suggest indirectly'.
He hinted at resigning.
A common loanword meaning 'advice' or 'suggestion'. Casual and widely used.
Do you have any suggestions?
A more formal word for 'advice' or 'suggestion'. Often used in professional contexts.
I sought expert advice.
Please let us know your suggestions.
Loanword meaning 'idea' or 'suggestion'. Often used in creative or business contexts.
Any good suggestions?
彼の沈黙は同意を示唆していた。
His silence suggested agreement.
The English word 'suggestion' is often not directly translated. Instead, Japanese uses patterns like 〜たらどう？ or 〜てはいかがですか to make suggestions naturally. Using the noun 提案 in casual speech can sound stiff.
I have a suggestion.