propose

verb pro·pose \ prə-ˈpōz \

Updated on: 12 Apr 2018

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

Neighboring Maryland has proposed fines of more than double what Virginia has adopted.

— john bacon, USA TODAY, "Driving too slow on Virginia highways can cost you $100," 9 Apr. 2018
Zuckerberg has proposed setting up independent bodies that would hear appeals from users regarding Facebook’s decisions.

— henry farrell, margaret levi, Vox, "Mark Zuckerberg runs a nation-state, and he’s the king," 9 Apr. 2018
In the past, researchers have proposed that the brow ridge served a practical function.

— ashley strickland, CNN, "This could be why our eyebrows evolved," 9 Apr. 2018
As proposed, the project would have demolished the 1973 building and replaced it with a $41.6 million facility.

— kate elizabeth queram, Howard County Times, "Howard fights for state funds for new Columbia elementary school," 9 Apr. 2018
Under the new initiative, social science researchers will propose research projects for peer review.

— russell brandom, The Verge, "Facebook will give researchers new data to study election interference," 9 Apr. 2018
Each art panel is proposed to be 3 feet wide by 5 feet tall.

— barbara henry, sandiegouniontribune.com, "Artistic flourishes planned for freeway underpasses," 8 Apr. 2018
The next day, the United States proposed the $50 billion in duties on Chinese imports.

— ken thomas, chicagotribune.com, "White House sends mixed signals on trade fight; markets dive," 7 Apr. 2018
The next day, the United States proposed the $50 billion in duties on Chinese imports.

— CBS News, "White House sends mixed signals on trade fight," 7 Apr. 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.

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

aim, aspire, calculate, contemplate, design, intend, look, mean, meditate, plan, purport, purpose;

Related Words

dream, hope, wish;

consider, debate, mull (over), ponder;

attempt, endeavor, strive, struggle, try;

plot, scheme;

accomplish, achieve, effect, execute, perform;

Phrases

figure on;

PROPOSE Defined for English Language Learners

propose

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.