Language learners often get stuck when it comes to the difference between advise and advice. At first glance, they look almost the same, just one letter apart. But in English grammar, even a single letter can completely change the role of a word in a sentence. That’s why people often misuse these two words in emails, academic writing, and even everyday conversations.
This article will clear up all the confusion. We’ll cover the definitions, correct usage, common grammar mistakes, pronunciation guide, synonyms, and memory tricks so you never mix them up again.
What is the Difference Between Advise and Advice?
The main difference between advise and advice is simple:
- Advice is a noun – it refers to guidance, suggestions, or recommendations you give to someone.
- Advise is a verb – it means the action of offering guidance or giving recommendations.
Think of it like this:
👉 Advice is the thing you give.
👉 Advise is the act of giving it.
For example:
- Correct: She gave me great advice about starting a business.
- Correct: She advised me to start a business carefully.
Definition of Advice (Noun)
Advice is an uncountable noun. It means suggestions, guidance, or recommendations that help someone make decisions.
- Pronunciation: /ədˈvaɪs/ (rhymes with ice).
Examples of “Advice” in Sentences
- My teacher gave me excellent advice for exam preparation.
- If you need legal advice, consult a lawyer.
- His advice helped me solve a difficult problem.
- Good advice can save you from making costly mistakes.
Definition of Advise (Verb)
Advise is a verb. It refers to the action of giving suggestions or making recommendations.
- Pronunciation: /ədˈvaɪz/ (sounds like realize).
- Verb forms: advise, advised, advising.
Examples of “Advise” in Sentences
- Doctors usually advise patients to eat healthy.
- She advised me to study harder.
- I always advise friends to save money.
- The lawyer advised his client to stay silent.
Pronunciation Guide – Advice vs Advise
One of the biggest reasons learners confuse these words is pronunciation.
- Advice → Ends with an “s” sound (like ice).
- Advise → Ends with a “z” sound (like realize).
🔑 Tip to remember:
- “Ice” = advice (noun).
- “Z” = advise (verb).
Synonyms of Advice and Advise
Expanding your vocabulary helps you understand the context better.
Synonyms of Advice (Noun)
- Guidance
- Recommendation
- Suggestion
- Counsel
- Information
- Tip
Synonyms of Advise (Verb)
- Recommend
- Suggest
- Urge
- Counsel
- Caution
- Instruct
Common Grammar Mistakes with Advise and Advice
Many learners confuse the two words in professional writing, especially in emails. Let’s look at some frequent errors:
- ❌ Wrong: Please advice me on this matter.
- ✅ Correct: Please advise me on this matter.
- ❌ Wrong: He gave me a good advise about studies.
- ✅ Correct: He gave me good advice about studies.
Can You Pluralize Advice?
Another common question: Is “advices” correct?
The answer is no.
- Advice is an uncountable noun, so it cannot be pluralized.
- Instead, use a piece of advice or two pieces of advice.
Examples:
- Correct: She gave me one piece of advice.
- Correct: I got several pieces of advice from my mentor.
Please Advise or Please Advice?
In professional emails, many people write: Please advice.
But that’s wrong.
- The correct expression is: Please advise.
- Why? Because in this context, you’re asking the person to do an action (verb), not provide a thing (noun).
Example:
- Correct: Please advise if this schedule works for you.
Examples of Advice vs Advise in Sentences
Sentences with “Advice” (Noun):
- The doctor’s advice was to get more rest.
- I always follow my parents’ advice.
- His financial advice helped me save money.
Sentences with “Advise” (Verb):
- Teachers often advise students to practice daily.
- The consultant advised me to start small.
- Experts advise against smoking.
Sentences Using Both:
- My lawyer advised me to follow his advice carefully.
- She advised him to take her advice seriously.
Tricks to Remember the Difference Between Advise and Advice
Here are some memory hacks:
- -ise = verb → like advertise, supervise, advise.
- -ice = noun → like device, notice, advice.
- Think: Advice = ice (thing), Advise = zzz (action).
Practice Worksheet
Fill in the blanks with the correct word (advice or advise):
- Can you give me some good ______ about traveling?
- The doctor ______ me to drink more water.
- She followed her father’s ______ and succeeded.
- Lawyers usually ______ their clients to remain silent.
(Answers: 1. advice, 2. advised, 3. advice, 4. advise)
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Final Thoughts on the Difference Between Advise and Advice
The difference between advise and advice comes down to grammar: one is a noun, the other is a verb.
- Advice (noun): A suggestion or recommendation.
- Advise (verb): The act of giving that recommendation.
If you remember the “ice” vs “z” sound rule, you’ll never confuse them again. Whether you’re writing an email, preparing for exams, or polishing professional communication skills, using the right form will make your English sound natural and correct.
So next time, don’t say Please advice. Always write Please advise.
