propose

play

verb pro·pose \ prə-ˈpōz \

Definition of propose

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

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proposer

noun

See propose defined for English-language learners

See propose defined for kids

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 of propose from the Web

Bristol County, Mass., Sheriff Thomas Hodgson is proposing to send county inmates to help the city of Houston clean up the devastating destruction caused by Hurricane Harvey.

— breanna edwards, The Root, "Mass. Sheriff Who Offered Free Inmate Labor to Help Build Trump’s Wall Now Proposes to Send Inmates to Help With Harvey Damage," 30 Aug. 2017
On April 1, 1971, about 150 young people met to support, at the location first proposed a year ago, something called Woodstock Park, The Journal reported April 2.

— chris foran, Milwaukee Journal Sentinel, "When music found an 'Alternate' home on Milwaukee's lakefront — in 1971," 29 Aug. 2017
California legislators are proposing a change that would cover these types of interactions, creating the prospect of a wave of lawsuits against VCs.

— Fortune, "California Wants to Crack Down on Sexual Harassment by Venture Capitalists," 28 Aug. 2017
So Councilwoman Jolie Justus had proposed alternate language that just seeks a new airport terminal paid for by airport revenues, without using airport bonds.

— lynn horsley, kansascity, "Announcement expected Aug. 31 on chosen proposal for KCI," 23 Aug. 2017
Astrid Hacker/CJ Lexington could soon see protests by white nationalists who oppose moving Confederate statues, though not on the scale first proposed.

— justin sayers, The Courier-Journal, "'Their views are not welcome here': Counterprotesters mobilize against white nationalist 'flash demonstrations'," 23 Aug. 2017
Aaron is just the latest to enter that group of people, but especially given the political climate—and the president’s recent proposed ban on transgender service members in the military—the arc carries even more weight.

— laura bradley, HWD, "Inside The Fosters’ Groundbreaking Callie-Aaron Sex Scene," 23 Aug. 2017
Labor organizer Matt Muchowski's campaign, which doesn't propose a new street name, had more than 370 supporters as of August 17.

— john greenfield, Chicago Reader, "Some Italian-Americans in Chicago say they ‘fiercely oppose’ renaming Balbo Drive," 21 Aug. 2017
Lucas would be the first Republican lawmaker to formally propose such legislation in at least five years.

— tony cook, Indianapolis Star, "Medical marijuana bill on its way to Indiana legislature — and a Republican is behind it," 17 Aug. 2017

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.

Origin and Etymology of propose

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

NEW! Time Traveler

First Known Use: 14th century

See Words from the same year

propose Synonyms

Synonyms

advance, bounce, offer, pose, proffer, propound, suggest, vote, put forth, put forward

Related Words

move; nominate, recommend; present, submit, tender, trot out; file, lay, lodge; arrange, calculate, chart, contrive, cover, frame, map, plan, plot, shape

PROPOSE Defined for English Language Learners

propose

play

verb

Definition of propose for English Language Learners

: 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.