propose

verb

pro·​pose prə-ˈpōz 

proposed; proposing

intransitive verb

1

: to form or put forward a plan or intention

man proposes, but God disposes

2

obsolete : to engage in talk or discussion

3

: to make an offer of marriage

transitive verb

1

a

: to set before the mind (as for discussion, imitation, or action)

propose a plan for settling the dispute

b

: to set before someone and especially oneself as an aim or intent

proposed to spend the summer in Italy

2

a

: to set forth for acceptance or rejection

propose terms for peace

propose a topic for debate

b

: to recommend to fill a place or vacancy : nominate

propose them for membership

c

: to offer as a toast

propose the happiness of the couple

proposer noun

Synonyms

• advance
• bounce
• offer
• pose
• proffer
• propound
• suggest
• vote

Examples of propose in a Sentence

The scientists proposed a new theory.

The mayor proposed a plan for a new bridge.

Several senators have proposed raising the tax.

I propose that we revise the bylaws.

They propose to buy a new house.

How do you propose solving this problem?

The chairman proposed the young executive as a candidate for promotion.

Recent Examples on the Web

Warehouse project: In the June 8 section A, the secondary headline over a story about a warehouse development in Bloomington described the project as proposed. —Los Angeles Times, 9 June 2024

In 2021, lawyers proposed codifying ecocide into international criminal law, putting it on par with genocide. —Eva Roytburg, Fortune Europe, 9 June 2024

The Duke of Westminster proposed to Olivia at Eaton Hall, his family's ancestral seat on the outskirts of Chester, and the couple gave back to his hometown before their big day. —Janine Henni, Peoplemag, 8 June 2024

Advertisement Mayor Todd Gloria proposed nearly $40 million in such cuts to help close a budget deficit of roughly $150 million in April. —David Garrick, San Diego Union-Tribune, 8 June 2024

Word History

Etymology

Middle English, from Anglo-French purposer, proposer, from Latin proponere (perfect indicative proposui) — more at propound

First Known Use

14th century, in the meaning defined at intransitive sense 1

Phrases Containing propose

• propose a toast
• propose marriage

Kids Definition

propose

verb

pro·​pose prə-ˈpōz 

proposed; proposing

1

: to make a suggestion to be thought over and talked about : suggest

propose a new theory

2

: to make plans : intend

propose to buy a new house

3

: to suggest for filling a place or office

propose someone for membership

4

: to make an offer of marriage

proposer noun