propose

verb pro·pose \ prə-ˈpōz \

|Updated on: 1 Aug 2018

Examples: propose in a Sentence

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

It’s been proposed over and over again for nearly 200 years, and nearly always amounts to nothing.

— avery thompson, Popular Mechanics, "Cape Town Wants to Tow an Iceberg to Solve Its Water Shortage," 6 July 2018
The deal Beckham is proposing calls for the city to collect nearly $140 million in rent payments over 39 years, a rate of roughly $3.5 million annually.

— tim reynolds, Pro Soccer USA, "David Beckham lobbying to build MLS stadium on public golf course land," 4 July 2018
The ring features a padparadscha sapphire and is surrounded by diamonds, and looks very similar to the ring that her father, Prince Andrew, used to propose to her mother.

— temi adebowale, Town & Country, "A Definitive History of Princess Eugenie and Jack Brooksbank's Relationship," 2 July 2018
But, for New York subway riders, the work that Byford is proposing will require a hard-to-picture amount of patience.

— william finnegan, The New Yorker, "Can Andy Byford Save the Subways?," 2 July 2018
For the show, Marc Quinn proposed a near life-sized statue of Kate made entirely of gold.

— waldemar januszczak, A-LIST, "Kate Moss: The Golden Girl," 1 July 2018
His announcement came as lawmakers were proposing such legislation.

— mary jo pitzl, Arizona Republic, "'Another set of eyes': New system is a check on DCS child removals," 1 July 2018
One proposed mechanism, as outlined in a review published in 2008 in the Proceedings of the American Thoracic Society, is that fat that sits around the neck and upper airways can contribute to the collapsing of those airways during sleep.

— sarah jacoby, SELF, "The Science on Weight and Health," 26 June 2018
May is proposing to maintain certain trade and economic ties that Trump thinks should be severed.

— calvin woodward and hope yen, chicagotribune.com, "Trump is in Europe and the truth is not with him: A fact check," 14 July 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

in the meaning defined at intransitive sense 1

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.