20 Other Ways to Say “Please Advise”

“Please advise” is a common phrase used in professional and formal communication when someone is seeking direction, information, or confirmation from another person. For example, in an email, someone might write, “I’m unsure how to proceed with this task — please advise,” as a polite and concise way to ask for further instructions or input.

However, depending on the tone, formality, and context of your message, there are many other phrases that can replace “please advise,” each with subtle differences in tone and intent. Whether you’re writing to a client, a colleague, or a supervisor, using varied language can make your writing more engaging, courteous, and effective.

Other Ways to Say “Please Advise”

1. Let me know what you think

Example: “I’ve attached the draft for your review — let me know what you think.”
Meaning: A friendly and conversational way to seek feedback or opinions on something shared.
Usage: Works well in informal or semi-formal settings when looking for casual input or thoughts.

2. I would appreciate your guidance

Example: “Before I proceed, I would appreciate your guidance on how to approach this situation.”
Meaning: A respectful and professional way to ask for expert advice or direction.
Usage: Suitable for formal emails, particularly when addressing someone in a position of authority or expertise.

3. Can you provide some input?

Example: “I’ve outlined the possible options — can you provide some input before I finalize the plan?”
Meaning: A direct but polite way to request someone’s thoughts, suggestions, or perspective.
Usage: Works well in team settings and project collaborations where collaboration is essential.

4. I’d like your thoughts on this

Example: “Here’s the current proposal — I’d like your thoughts on this before moving forward.”
Meaning: A courteous expression to solicit opinions or feedback.
Usage: Ideal for conversations with coworkers, superiors, or partners when collaboration is expected.

5. What would you recommend?

Example: “Given the options available, what would you recommend?”
Meaning: A more consultative phrase used to actively seek someone’s preferred course of action.
Usage: Perfect for situations where you trust the other person’s judgment and want clear advice.

6. I’m open to suggestions

Example: “I haven’t finalized the plan yet — I’m open to suggestions if you have any.”
Meaning: A flexible and open-ended way to invite opinions and alternatives.
Usage: Best used in informal or brainstorming contexts when collaboration is key.

7. Kindly share your thoughts

Example: “I’ve reviewed the documentation — kindly share your thoughts before we move forward.”
Meaning: A slightly formal but still approachable request for opinions or comments.
Usage: Suitable for formal or polite business communications.

8. Please let me know how to proceed

Example: “I’ve completed the initial steps — please let me know how to proceed from here.”
Meaning: A clear and respectful request for direction or next steps.
Usage: Works well in professional settings where roles or hierarchies are defined.

9. Your input would be valuable

Example: “We’re deciding between two vendors — your input would be valuable in helping us choose.”
Meaning: A sincere and professional way to recognize the value of someone’s opinion.
Usage: Appropriate for team collaborations or when consulting subject-matter experts.

10. Do you have any suggestions?

Example: “We’re facing a few challenges with the current timeline — do you have any suggestions?”
Meaning: A polite and open-ended inquiry inviting someone to offer solutions or advice.
Usage: Good for both formal and casual communication, especially during problem-solving discussions.

11. I’d love your advice

Example: “I’m not sure which design direction to take — I’d love your advice.”
Meaning: A warm and sincere way to show that you respect and value the other person’s opinion.
Usage: More suitable for casual or semi-formal exchanges, especially with trusted colleagues or mentors.

12. I’m looking for some direction

Example: “This situation is a bit unclear — I’m looking for some direction before acting.”
Meaning: A gentle way to express uncertainty and a need for guidance.
Usage: Well-suited for workplace conversations or messages where the next steps are unclear.

13. What are your thoughts?

Example: “This is the current plan for next week — what are your thoughts?”
Meaning: A straightforward question inviting someone to share their opinion.
Usage: Appropriate for team settings or informal communication when feedback is needed quickly.

14. Could you weigh in?

Example: “Before we finalize the policy, could you weigh in with your perspective?”
Meaning: A casual yet respectful way to ask someone to join a discussion and offer input.
Usage: Often used in meetings or group discussions, both written and verbal.

15. Would love your take on this

Example: “Here’s the initial draft — would love your take on this before submitting.”
Meaning: A relaxed and engaging phrase that invites interpretation or critique.
Usage: Effective in team environments where openness and collaboration are encouraged.

16. I could use your expertise

Example: “This part of the process is outside my comfort zone — I could use your expertise.”
Meaning: A phrase that humbly acknowledges someone else’s skill and asks for help.
Usage: Best for formal or technical discussions where specialist knowledge is sought.

17. Feel free to chime in

Example: “I’ve shared my ideas — feel free to chime in if you have suggestions.”
Meaning: A friendly and inclusive way to invite participation.
Usage: Suitable in casual group settings or email chains where open collaboration is encouraged.

18. Can I get your take?

Example: “I’m comparing two marketing strategies — can I get your take?”
Meaning: A very informal, conversational way to ask for someone’s opinion or insight.
Usage: Works well with coworkers or peers in relaxed communication channels.

19. Please let me know your recommendation

Example: “I’ve narrowed it down to two vendors — please let me know your recommendation.”
Meaning: A slightly more formal way of directly asking someone to give advice or choose among options.
Usage: Great for situations where a specific answer or course of action is needed.

20. Kindly advise

Example: “The client has asked for a timeline update — kindly advise on how we should proceed.”
Meaning: A more formal version of “please advise,” often used in written business communication.
Usage: Common in legal, financial, or high-level professional correspondence.

When to Use Different “Please Advise” Alternatives

In Professional Settings

In business or corporate communication, especially when you are addressing supervisors, clients, or external partners, it’s often best to use phrases that convey respect and professionalism — such as “I would appreciate your guidance,” “Please let me know how to proceed,” or “Kindly advise” — because these choices reflect a tone of humility, precision, and readiness to follow through responsibly.

In Casual or Everyday Conversations

When you’re speaking with peers or teammates in an informal context, it can feel more natural and collaborative to say things like “Let me know what you think,” “Feel free to chime in,” or “Would love your take on this,” as these variations maintain clarity while helping the tone feel inclusive and low-pressure.

In Academic or Technical Contexts

In research-based, instructional, or technical environments where detail and authority are key, you might prefer options such as “Can you provide some input?” or “I could use your expertise,” because these phrases help reinforce both the seriousness of the matter and the trust placed in the other person’s knowledge and credentials.

Conclusion

While “please advise” remains a widely used phrase in written communication, especially in business emails, it can sometimes come across as too formal, vague, or even impersonal. That’s why it helps to have a broader range of expressions — from warm and inviting to firm and respectful — that allow you to tailor your tone to fit each audience and situation.

Expanding your language in this way can make your communication more engaging, persuasive, and professional — all while showing that you’re thoughtful, adaptable, and considerate of the person you’re addressing.

FAQs

What does “please advise” mean?

It’s a formal phrase used to request guidance, input, or information about a situation, often in emails or written communication.

Is “please advise” rude or passive-aggressive?

It can sometimes come across that way, especially if it’s used abruptly or without context — choosing a softer or more specific alternative can often create a better tone.

Can “please advise” be used in casual conversation?

While it’s not incorrect, it can sound stiff or overly formal in casual contexts — instead, use friendlier alternatives like “What do you think?” or “Any suggestions?”

Is “kindly advise” more polite than “please advise”?

Yes, “kindly advise” adds an extra note of politeness and formality, which can be appreciated in very professional or diplomatic situations.