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This week’s column topic is 3 Best Places to Visit in Your Country/Town, so for anyone studying English, here are some ways to make recommendations (with examples about Canada)!
Let’s start with the most common verbs for making recommendations: recommend and suggest.
Both words can be followed by a noun:
Ex. I recommend the butter tarts.
Both words can be followed by a gerund:
Ex. I suggest taking the VIA train called The Canadian from Toronto to Vancouver.
Both words can be followed by a noun clause in the subjunctive mood:
Ex. I recommend (that) you visit Niagara Falls and take a ride on the Maid of the Mist.
*Notice the verb forms and also be aware that this structure sounds very formal.
Neither verb can be followed by an object pronoun and an infinitive:
Ex. I suggest you to check out the West Edmonton Mall. (INCORRECT)
*This is a common error.
You can also use the modals could and should to make recommendations. Could and should are followed by a base form verb. Could expresses a weaker suggestion (a possibility) and should expresses a stronger suggestion (a good idea).
Ex. You should check out the Canadian Tulip Festival in Ottawa in the Spring, and you could hop across the border to visit Quebec while you’re there.
An imperative can also be used to make a strong recommendation. It may follow or be followed by an “if” clause.
Ex. Bring plenty of layers and some good earmuffs if you visit in the winter!
Ex. If you’re a fan of seafood, try the fresh lobster on the east coast.
I hope this will help you to make recommendations in English, and please feel free to leave your recommendation in the comments!
Zach
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