Advisory means giving advice or recommendations, usually from someone with special knowledge or expertise. An advisory panel helps leaders make better decisions by sharing expert opinions. A weather advisory warns people about potentially dangerous conditions like heavy rain or strong winds. Many schools have an advisory period where a small group of students meets regularly with a teacher who guides them through challenges and helps them plan for success.

You might receive an advisory notice about road construction, or a doctor might serve on a medical advisory board that helps hospitals improve patient care. Financial advisors provide advisory services to help people manage their money wisely.

Notice that advisory suggests guidance rather than orders. An advisory committee recommends actions but doesn't have the power to enforce them. When you see an advisory on a video game or movie, it's informing you about content, not forbidding you from watching. Something advisory provides helpful information or counsel so you can make better choices yourself.