Have you ever wondered, “Is it correct to say ‘She suggested me to apply’?” If so, you’re not alone. This sentence sounds logical to many English learners, but it’s actually grammatically incorrect. Understanding why will help you avoid a very common mistake and speak more natural English. In this article, we’ll explain the correct structure, show you real-life examples, and clarify the grammar rules behind the verb suggest.
Is “She Suggested Me to Apply” Correct?
No, “She suggested me to apply” is not correct in standard English.
The verb suggest does not follow the pattern suggest + person + to + verb. Instead, it follows different grammatical structures. This is where many learners get confused because other verbs (like tell or advise) do allow that pattern.
According to the Cambridge Dictionary, suggest means “to mention an idea, possible plan, or action for other people to consider.” Notice that the definition focuses on mentioning an idea—not directing a person. That difference affects the grammar.
Why Is It Incorrect?
In English, some verbs can take an object (a person) directly before an infinitive (to + verb). For example:
- She told me to apply.
- She advised me to apply.
However, suggest does not work this way. You cannot say:
- ❌ She suggested me to apply.
This structure is simply not part of standard English grammar.
What Are the Correct Alternatives?
Instead of saying “She suggested me to apply,” you can use one of the following correct structures:
1. Suggest + (that) + Subject + Base Verb
This is one of the most common patterns.
- ✅ She suggested that I apply.
- ✅ He suggested that we leave early.
Notice that we use the base form of the verb (apply, not applied or to apply). This is called the subjunctive form, which is common after verbs like suggest, recommend, and insist.
According to the Oxford Learner’s Dictionary, one structure of suggest is: suggest (that) somebody (should) do something.
For example:
Manager: I think you’d be great for the promotion.
Colleague: Really?
Manager: Yes, I suggest that you apply.
2. Suggest + -ing Form
You can also use a gerund (-ing form):
- ✅ She suggested applying.
- ✅ He suggested going earlier.
If needed, you can clarify who should do the action:
- ✅ She suggested my applying for the job. (more formal)
- ✅ She suggested that I apply. (more common)
3. Suggest + Idea (Noun Phrase)
- ✅ She suggested the idea of applying.
- ✅ He suggested a different approach.
Quick Comparison: Suggest vs. Advise vs. Tell
Many learners say “She suggested me to apply” because they confuse suggest with similar verbs. Let’s compare them:
| Verb | Correct Structure | Example |
|---|---|---|
| Suggest | suggest (that) + subject + base verb | She suggested that I apply. |
| Advise | advise + object + to + verb | She advised me to apply. |
| Tell | tell + object + to + verb | She told me to apply. |
This table clearly shows why “She suggested me to apply” is incorrect, while “She advised me to apply” is perfectly fine.
Real-World Examples in Context
Let’s look at how native speakers actually use suggest in emails and conversations.
Email to a friend:
Hi Emma,
I saw that the company is hiring. I really think you’d be a great fit. I suggest that you apply before the deadline.
Best,
Liam
Conversation:
A: I’m not sure what to do after graduation.
B: Have you thought about studying abroad?
A: Not really.
B: I suggest looking at programs in Canada.
Formal meeting:
The committee suggested that the company revise its policy.
In all these examples, you’ll notice there is no structure like “suggested me to”.
Why Do Learners Make This Mistake?
There are a few common reasons:
- Translation from other languages – In some languages, the equivalent of “suggest” allows a direct object before an infinitive.
- Confusion with “advise” – Since “advise me to apply” is correct, learners assume “suggest me to apply” must also be correct.
- Overgeneralization – Learners apply one grammar pattern to many verbs.
Being aware of this difference will help you avoid repeating the error.
Can You Ever Say “Suggest Me”?
Generally, no. You cannot use suggest with a direct object pronoun like me in this way.
However, you might see something like:
- Can you suggest a good restaurant to me?
Here, restaurant is the object—not me. The structure is different.
Simple Rule to Remember
If you’re unsure whether to say “She suggested me to apply,” remember this simple rule:
Use “advise someone to…” but “suggest that someone…”
For example:
- ✅ She advised me to apply.
- ✅ She suggested that I apply.
- ❌ She suggested me to apply.
Conclusion
So, is it correct to say “She suggested me to apply”? No, it isn’t. While the sentence may seem logical, it does not follow standard English grammar rules.
Instead, use one of these correct forms:
- She suggested that I apply.
- She suggested applying.
Remember that suggest does not follow the same pattern as advise or tell. Checking reliable sources like the Cambridge Dictionary or Oxford Learner’s Dictionary can help you confirm correct usage when you’re unsure.
Mastering small differences like this will make your English sound more natural, professional, and confident. And next time someone asks, “Is it correct to say ‘She suggested me to apply’?” — you’ll know exactly how to explain why it’s not.
Did I miss anything? Respond below :backhand_index_pointing_down: