Noun or verb?
advice vs advise
Meaning, pronunciation, and examples
Advice is a noun for a helpful suggestion. Advise is the verb meaning “to give advice.” Advice ends with /s/; advise ends with /z/.
Reference accent
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American English
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Word 1
advice
noun
An opinion or suggestion offered to help someone decide what to do.
US pronunciation
/ədˈvaɪs/
UK IPA
/ədˈvaɪs/
Hear three samples
How to pronounce it
Stress VICE and end with an unvoiced /s/, with no vibration in your throat.
Word 2
advise
verb
To recommend an action or give someone guidance.
US pronunciation
/ədˈvaɪz/
UK IPA
/ədˈvaɪz/
Hear three samples
How to pronounce it
Stress VIZE and finish with a voiced /z/, which should create a gentle buzz.
Sound contrast
How to tell them apart
The first two syllables are alike. At the end of advice, let air pass without vibration for /s/. At the end of advise, keep your voice on for /z/.
Meaning and usage
What is the difference between advice and advise?
You can give, receive, ask for, or follow advice. A person can advise someone to take an action. Advice is uncountable in standard English, so say “some advice” or “a piece of advice,” not “an advice.”
Listen in context
Six example sentences
Context makes both the meaning and the natural rhythm easier to hear. Every sentence has its own playback.
Examples with
advice
- Your advice was practical and kind.
- I asked my mentor for advice.
- Here is one useful piece of advice.
Examples with
advise
- The doctor advised me to rest.
- I advise you to check the details first.
- Experts advise caution during the storm.
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