ABCcount

advice vs. advise

The spelling difference is small but the pronunciation difference is not — "advice" ends with a hiss, "advise" with a buzz. Say them aloud and they are plainly distinct. The written error persists mainly in quick typing, and it is common enough in professional email that it has become a minor tell.

advice

A noun. Guidance or a recommendation — the thing itself. Never takes a plural "s."

  • Her advice was to wait a week.
  • I need some legal advice before signing.
  • That was good advice, badly timed.
  • Not "advices" — it is uncountable, so you take a piece of advice.

advise

A verb. To give guidance or a recommendation.

  • I would advise against it.
  • Counsel advised the board to postpone.
  • Please advise when the transfer clears.
  • She advises three companies on regulatory matters.

Quick way to remember

Say it aloud. "Advice" rhymes with "ice" and is a thing. "Advise" rhymes with "wise" and is an action. If you can put "some" or "the" in front of it, you want the noun.