• "Please advise" is a phrase commonly used in written communication to request guidance, instructions, or suggestions from the recipient. It is a polite way of asking for advice or assistance on a particular matter.
✉️ Example: We are experiencing technical difficulties with the website. Please advise on the best course of action to resolve this issue.

In this sentence, "please advise" is a request for the recipient to provide guidance or suggestions on how to address the technical difficulties with the website.

How to Use the Phrase "Please Advise"

When to use "please advise"

"Please advise" is a polite and concise way to seek guidance or recommendations from someone. It is commonly used in professional settings, such as business emails or formal correspondence, to request assistance or input on various matters.

When using this phrase, it's essential to be specific about the issue or topic for which you are seeking advice. This helps the recipient understand the context and provide relevant guidance. Additionally, it's important to use "please advise" respectfully and sparingly, as it may come across as overly demanding if used too frequently or inappropriately.

Example contexts for using "please advise":

  • Seeking clarification or instructions on a task or project.
  • Requesting guidance on a decision or course of action.
  • Asking for recommendations or suggestions on a particular issue or problem.

The use of "please advise" over time

As you can see from the graph below, the phrase "please advise" saw fluctuations in use throughout time. The phrase began to increase in popularity in the 1840s, and peaked around the 1940s.

How to Use the Phrase "Please Advise"

Example sentences

  1. We have received conflicting information from different sources. Please advise on the most accurate course of action.
  2. Our team is considering two proposals for the upcoming project. Please advise which one you think would be the best fit.
  3. The deadline for the report is approaching, but I'm still unsure about how to structure it. Please advise on the recommended format.
  4. We are encountering difficulties in implementing the new software system. Please advise on how to troubleshoot these issues.
  5. I have a meeting scheduled with a client tomorrow, but I'm not sure what topics to prioritize. Please advise on the key points to discuss.
  6. The budget for the project has been revised, and we need to reallocate resources accordingly. Please advise on the most efficient way to redistribute funds.
  7. Our team is planning an event, and we would appreciate your input on the agenda. Please advise on any additions or adjustments.
  8. I'm considering pursuing further education, but I'm unsure about which program to choose. Please advise on the best course of action.
  9. The contract terms are unclear, and we need guidance on how to proceed with negotiations. Please advise on the recommended approach.
  10. We are experiencing a delay in the delivery of materials for the project. Please advise on how to mitigate the impact on the timeline.

Examples from the web

"Please advise me what my rights are." - The Guardian

Other ways to say "please advise"

  • Your input would be appreciated.
  • I would welcome your guidance.
  • Any suggestions are welcome.
  • I'm open to your recommendations.
  • Please offer your advice.

FAQs

Is it please advise or advice?

The correct form is "Please advise" using the verb "advise" rather than the noun "advice."

"Advise" is a verb that means to offer suggestions, recommendations, or guidance to someone. It's used when asking someone to provide direction or assistance in a particular situation. On the other hand, "advice" is a noun referring to recommendations or guidance given to someone regarding a particular course of action or decision.

So, when using the phrase "Please advise," you're essentially asking someone to give you advice or guidance on a specific matter.

Is "please advise" rude or passive-aggressive?

"Please advise" can sometimes come across as overly formal or slightly ambiguous, but it's not inherently rude or passive-aggressive. However, its tone largely depends on the context in which it's used and the relationship between the sender and recipient.

Summary

"Please advise" is a polite way to request guidance, instructions, or suggestions from someone in written communication. It is commonly used in professional settings to seek assistance or input on various matters. When using this phrase, it's important to be specific about the issue or topic for which you are seeking advice and to use it respectfully and sparingly.


How to Use the Phrase "Please Advise"

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How to Use the Phrase "Please Advise"


References:

Definition of ADVISE
to give (someone) a recommendation about what should be done : to give advice to; caution, warn; recommend… See the full definition
How to Use the Phrase "Please Advise"