1. What Does “Recommend” Mean?

“Recommend” is a verb that means to suggest something as being a good choice. You might use it to share advice or express approval about something you think would be helpful, enjoyable, or beneficial.

For example:

• “I recommend trying that new restaurant downtown!” (Here, you think the restaurant is a good choice.)

2. Key Ways to Use “Recommend”

The word “recommend” is usually followed by one of these structures:

A. Recommend + noun

• Use this when you’re suggesting a specific thing.
• Example:
  • “I recommend the pasta here.” (You think the pasta is a good option.)

B. Recommend + verb (in gerund form, -ing)

• When you recommend an action, use the verb with an “-ing” form.
• Example:
  • “I recommend visiting the museum.” (You think visiting the museum is a good activity.)

C. Recommend + that + subject + verb (base form)

• This structure is a bit more formal and often used when giving more specific advice.
• Example:
  • “I recommend that you study hard for the exam.” (You’re suggesting that studying hard is a good idea.)

3. Common Mistakes and Tips

• Avoid “to” after “recommend”:
  Many learners mistakenly add “to” after “recommend.” Remember, it’s simply “recommend [something]” or “recommend [doing something]” without “to.”
  • Incorrect: “I recommend you to watch this movie.”
  • Correct: “I recommend watching this movie.”
• Avoid Using “should” with “recommend”:
  Since “recommend” already implies a suggestion, adding “should” is unnecessary.
  • Incorrect: “I recommend you should visit Paris.”
  • Correct: “I recommend visiting Paris.”

4. Examples of “Recommend” in Context

• “The teacher recommends reading more books to improve vocabulary.”
• “My friend recommended that I try a new hobby.”
• “I wouldn’t recommend swimming in that river—it’s too cold!”

5. Practice Time!

Try completing these sentences with the correct form of “recommend”:

1. My doctor _________ (recommend, exercise) regularly for good health.
2. I _________ (recommend, this book) if you enjoy mystery novels.
3. Our guide _________ that we _________ (recommend, visit) the ancient ruins early in the morning.

Answers:

1. My doctor recommends exercising regularly for good health.
2. I recommend this book if you enjoy mystery novels.
3. Our guide recommended that we visit the ancient ruins early in the morning.