empfehlen
Translation
to recommend, to advise
Examples
Ich kann dir dieses Buch empfehlen.
I can recommend this book to you.
Welches Restaurant empfiehlst du?
Which restaurant do you recommend?
Der Arzt empfahl ihm Ruhe.
The doctor recommended rest to him.
Grammar Patterns
((sb.dat)) ((sth.acc)) to recommend (sth.) to (sb.) I can recommend this book to you.
((sb.dat)), ((to do sth.)) to advise (sb.) to do (sth.) The doctor advised him to rest.
Similar Words
raten (to advise), vorschlagen (to suggest)
Etymology
From the prefix 'emp-' (related to 'in') and 'fehlen' (related to command/order). It means to command something into someone's hands, i.e., to recommend.
Memory Tips
Think of giving someone an 'emphatic feeling' ('emp-fehlen') that they should try something. You are recommending it.