What are the differences between "recommendation," "suggestion," and "advice"?

The terms recommendation, suggestion, and advice are often used interchangeably, but they have subtle differences in connotation, tone, and the strength of their influence.

• Recommendation: Typically carries a stronger weight than a suggestion. It is often given with a sense of authority or expertise. Recommendations are based on a deeper understanding of the situation and may come from someone with specialized knowledge or experience in the subject matter. For example, a doctor might recommend a particular treatment plan based on their expertise in healthcare. Recommendations are seen as more directive and imply a certain level of trust in the person offering them.
• Suggestion: On the other hand, is more casual and less authoritative. It is usually a proposed idea or option without the same level of conviction or urgency. Suggestions are often made when there is no clear right or wrong answer and are intended to offer alternatives. For instance, a friend might suggest you try a new restaurant or suggest that you read a particular book, but they are not insisting that you do so. Suggestions tend to be more flexible and open to interpretation.
• Advice: Broader in scope and can be considered a mix of both recommendations and suggestions, but it is typically given with the intent to guide someone based on a deeper understanding of their needs. It involves offering wisdom or counsel that aims to help someone make decisions, often drawn from experience or knowledge. Advice can be authoritative or gentle, depending on the context, but it’s generally more personalized.

In summary, recommendation is typically the strongest and most authoritative, suggestion is the least forceful and offers an idea without pressure, and advice provides guidance that may include both recommendations and suggestions.