If I were you Definition 1 of 1Pro Tip 1/3Empathetic Advice Shows you understand their situation and have thought about what you would do. If I were you, I would talk to my boss about the issue. Pro Tip 2/3Consequence Prediction Implies a belief about likely outcomes of actions the other person could take. If I were you, I wouldn't miss this opportunity. Pro Tip 3/3Cultural Sensitivity Consider if the phrase is culturally appropriate; some cultures may find direct advice rude. If I were you, I'd check their customs first.