propose

verb

pro·pose | \ prə-ˈpōz

How to pronounce propose (audio)

\

proposed; proposing

Definition of propose

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

1a : 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

2a : 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

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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

The White House budget document will propose $2.7 trillion in cuts to nondefense discretionary... — Kate Davidson, WSJ, "Trump to Request $8.6 Billion for Border Wall in 2020 Budget," 10 Mar. 2019 Fans are also proposing that Kylie's Kylie Cosmetics collab with Jordyn is probably not going to get an update any time soon. — Carolyn Twersky, Seventeen, "These Crazy Tristan Thompson/Jordyn Woods Cheating Scandal Memes Are Exploding on Twitter," 22 Feb. 2019 The new announcement proposes that: Only two ingredients – zinc oxide and titanium dioxide – are generally recognized safe and effective. — Caroline Picard, Good Housekeeping, "What the New Proposed FDA Sunscreen Regulations Mean for You," 22 Feb. 2019 But no one in Congress is seriously proposing something that sweeping. — German Lopez, Vox, "I’ve covered gun violence for years. The solutions aren’t a big mystery.," 14 Feb. 2019 The groom had proposed over the summer, also upstate. — Erica Gonzales, Harper's BAZAAR, "Karlie Kloss Tears Up in Never-Before-Seen Footage of Her Wedding to Joshua Kushner," 2 Jan. 2019 Ever since Meghan Markle wore her minimalist Givenchy dress, many dressmakers are proposing simpler designs. — Madeleine Luckel, Vogue, "37 Wedding Trend Mistakes to Avoid in 2019: Succulents, Family-Style Meals, and More," 31 Dec. 2018 Meanwhile, Secretary Ben Carson has proposed rent hikes on low-income families and teased zoning incentives to jumpstart housing construction, but HUD has remained mostly silent. — Diana Budds, Curbed, "Elizabeth Warren doubles down on affordable housing legislation," 11 Dec. 2018 The actor had previously proposed to model and designer Hanna Beth. — Maggie Maloney, Town & Country, "Everything You Need to Know About Paris Hilton's Former Fiancé Chris Zylka," 19 Nov. 2018

These example sentences are selected automatically from various online news sources to reflect current usage of the word 'propose.' Views expressed in the examples do not represent the opinion of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback.

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Learn More about propose

Dictionary Entries near propose

propose a toast

propose marriage

Statistics for propose

Last Updated

14 Mar 2019

Look-up Popularity

Time Traveler for propose

The first known use of propose was in the 14th century

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More Definitions for propose

propose

verb

English Language Learners Definition of propose

: to suggest (something, such as a plan or theory) to a person or group of people to consider

: to plan or intend to do (something)

: to suggest (someone) for a job, position, office, etc.

See the full definition for propose in the English Language Learners Dictionary

propose

verb

pro·pose | \ prə-ˈpōz

\

proposed; proposing

Kids Definition of propose

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

2 : to make plans : intend How do you propose to pay for a new bike?

3 : to make an offer of marriage

4 : to suggest (someone) for filling a place or position I proposed my teacher for the award.

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