Helpful tips on tricky words

Do you know the difference between 'advice' and 'advise'?

Advice (n) - an opinion

If you give someone advice, you give them suggestions or guidance as to what they should do in a particular situation.

Advise (v) - to suggest or recommend

If you advise someone to do something, you suggest what they should do and tell them why.

Don't smoke, eat less and exercise more are common tips for a long life, but when the advice comes from a 108-year-old priest, it should be taken as gospel.

We are still studying the verdict and details of the wording before we consider whether, on the advice of counsel from the Department of Justice, there are further actions we can take.

This was a situation calling for efficient co-ordination between the police, transport authorities and other government departments, and timely advice for the public. Communication was the key to a swift emergency response, and it was the public's right to be kept informed.

Those involved in the Aids field said their departures may serve as an opening for NGO activists, who have long complained of being excluded from the influential councils that advise the government on health policies related to Aids and HIV.

'We advise our members to stay away from private clinics to avoid losing their cash as well as their hair,' she says.

What's useful about the GI concept is that it teaches people about the right carbohydrates and gives good information about what are the best food choices. Dieticians have long been using GI rating in foods to advise people, particularly diabetics, about how to choose foods.

Task:

Fill in the blanks with the correct word: advice or advise.

1. John _______________ me not to tell David the truth.

2. Mary went to a lawyer for _____________.

3. I would strongly _____________ you to start reading the newspaper to improve your English.

4. The Legislative Council _____________ the government on how to tackle poverty.

5. It was my mum who ____________ me to eat more vegetables.

6. He gave me some good _____________ about playing football.

Answer: 1. advised 2. advice 3. advise 4. advised 5. advised 6. advice