propose
pruh-POHZ
Propose (verb) means to suggest a plan, idea, or course of action for others to consider. Example: “I would like to propose a different route, since the motorway is closed.”
verb
1
To suggest a plan, idea, or course of action for others to consider.
"I would like to propose a different route, since the motorway is closed."
"The team proposed a new schedule for the project."
"She proposed that they meet again the following week."
2
To ask someone to marry you.
"She was so surprised when he proposed on the beach at sunset."
"Will you propose to her, or is she planning to ask you first?"
"He proposed to her on their tenth anniversary."
How to use propose
Learner’s notesIn plain EnglishTo put forward an idea for consideration, or to ask someone to marry you.
Easily confused with
Common pairings
propose a plan
propose marriage
propose a toast
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Word forms
- Plural
- proposes
- Third person singular
- proposes
- Past tense
- proposed
Fill the gap
Can you complete this real example?
I would like to _____ a different route, since the motorway is closed.
Etymology
From Middle English proposen, from Anglo-Norman proposer, from Latin proponere ("to put forward"). A doublet of "propound."
Synonyms
View more →Related words
Rhymes for propose
See all rhymes for propose →Frequently asked questions
What does “propose” mean?
The word “propose” means to suggest a plan, idea, or course of action for others to consider. In plain terms, to put forward an idea for consideration, or to ask someone to marry you.
How do you pronounce “propose”?
“Propose” is pronounced pruh-POHZ (/pɹəˈpoʊz/ in IPA).
How do you use “propose” in a sentence?
Here is “propose” used in a sentence: “The team proposed a new schedule for the project.”
What part of speech is “propose”?
“Propose” is a verb.
Where does the word “propose” come from?
The word “propose” comes from Latin. From Middle English proposen, from Anglo-Norman proposer, from Latin proponere ("to put forward"). A doublet of "propound.".
Is “propose” a common word?
“Propose” is a fairly common word in modern English, usually learned at around the B1 level.
How many meanings does “propose” have?
“Propose” has 2 distinct senses listed in this dictionary. The most common is: to suggest a plan, idea, or course of action for others to consider.
What is the difference between propose and suggest?
Propose is more formal and usually puts forward a definite plan or course of action for others to consider, as in meetings, politics, or formal writing. Suggest is lighter and more tentative, offering an idea or possibility. You suggest a restaurant to a friend, but you propose a motion or an amendment.
Is it "propose doing" or "propose to do"?
Both are grammatical but differ slightly. "Propose doing" suggests an action for consideration, as in "I propose postponing the vote," while "propose to do" usually states the speaker's own intention: "I propose to deal with this tomorrow." Formal English also uses a that-clause, often with the subjunctive: "I propose that he be included."
