English learners and even native speakers often get stuck on the words “advice” and “advise.”
They look almost the same, sound very similar, and deal with giving guidance — but they are not the same. If you’ve ever paused while writing an email or post, wondering, “Should I use advice or advise?” — you’re not alone.
People search for this keyword because the confusion can change the meaning of a sentence.
the wrong word might make your message unclear or even grammatically incorrect. That’s why understanding advice vs advise is important for students, professionals, and anyone who wants to write with confidence.
This article will give you the quick answer, show you the origin of both words, compare British and American spelling, highlight common mistakes, and provide real-life examples. By the end, you’ll know exactly when to use “advice” and when to use “advise.”
Advice vs Advise – Quick Answer
- Advice → noun → means a suggestion, opinion, or guidance.
- Example: She gave me good advice.
- Advise → verb → means the action of recommending something.
- Example: I advise you to rest.
👉 Think of it this way: advice = thing, advise = action.
The Origin of Advice vs Advise
Both words come from Old French:
- Advice → from “avis,” meaning “opinion” or “judgment.”
- Advise → from “aviser,” meaning “to consider” or “to recommend.”
The “c” form became the noun, while the “s” form became the verb. That’s why English kept two spellings to show two roles.
British English vs American English Spelling
Good news: “advice” and “advise” are spelled the same in both British and American English.
However, confusion comes from pronunciation:
- Advice → ends with an /s/ sound.
- Advise → ends with a /z/ sound.
Comparison Table
| Word | Part of Speech | Meaning | Example Sentence | Pronunciation |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Advice | Noun | Suggestion or guidance | She gave me good advice. | /ədˈvaɪs/ |
| Advise | Verb | To recommend or suggest action | I advise you to take a break. | /ədˈvaɪz/ |
Which Spelling Should You Use?
- If you are writing in the US → Use advice (noun) and advise (verb).
- If you are writing in the UK/Commonwealth → Same rules apply.
- For global audiences → Stick with the standard meanings. Both forms are accepted worldwide with no regional differences.
Common Mistakes with Advice vs Advise
- ❌ Can you advice me? → ✅ Can you advise me?
- ❌ She gave me a good advise. → ✅ She gave me good advice.
- Mixing pronunciation: remember advice = /s/, advise = /z/.
Advice vs Advise in Everyday Examples
- Emails: Please advise on the next steps.
- News: The government issued advice on travel safety.
- Social Media: Any advice for learning coding?
- Formal Writing: I would advise caution before investing.
Advice vs Advise – Google Trends & Usage Data
Search trends show:
- “Advice” is far more searched than “advise,” especially in the US, UK, and India.
- “Advise” peaks in professional contexts like legal, business, and HR documents.
👉 People look up “advice vs advise” most often when writing emails, resumes, or official letters.
FAQs about Advice vs Advise
1. Is advice plural or singular?
“Advice” is an uncountable noun. You don’t say “advices.” Instead, say “pieces of advice.”
2. Can “advise” be used as a noun?
No. “Advise” is only a verb. The noun form is “advice.”
3. Why do advice and advise sound different?
Because “c” makes an /s/ sound and “s” here makes a /z/ sound.
4. Can I say “advices” in British English?
No. Both British and American English use “advice” as uncountable.
5. Is “advise” formal?
Yes. It is often used in formal writing, such as “Please advise” in business emails.
6. Which is more common?
“Advice” is more common because people need guidance more often than they use the verb “advise.”
7. What’s the easiest way to remember?
Advice = thing (noun), Advise = action (verb).
Conclusion
The words advice vs advise may look similar, but they serve different roles. Advice is a noun, meaning guidance or suggestion, while advise is a verb, meaning to recommend action. They share the same origin, work the same in both American and British English, and differ only by usage and pronunciation.
When writing emails, posts, or reports, always check whether you need a “thing” (advice) or an “action” (advise). Remembering this simple rule will keep your writing clear, correct, and professional. Whether you’re in school, at work, or writing online, using the right word will ensure your message is understood.
I’m David Miller, a grammar expert and author at Wordorae.com, specializing in clear, simple explanations of confusing English grammar and word usage.
I help readers write with confidence by turning complex grammar rules into easy, practical guidance.
