propose

verb pro·pose \ prə-ˈpōz \

|Updated on: 6 Jun 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

—

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

None of the school budget plans announced so far call for boosting support staff pay at a higher rate than what is being proposed for teachers.

— ricardo cano, azcentral, "Pay raises for teachers, staff vary across Arizona school districts after #RedForEd," 3 June 2018
So South Korea’s military brass felt the need to issue a response over the golf course proposed for the defense university, south of Seoul.

— brian murphy, Washington Post, "South Korea’s military just wants a golf course. But nothing is easy ahead of the Trump-Kim summit.," 1 June 2018
Star architect Bjarke Ingels recently proposed to his girlfriend Ruth Otero with a Griegst ring.

— eve macsweeney, Vogue, "This Cult Danish Jeweler’s Work Will Be Reissued at Dover Street Market," 1 June 2018
Buffett had proposed similar terms to Goldman Sachs during the financial crisis.

— polina marinova, Fortune, "Term Sheet -- Thursday, May 31," 31 May 2018
The funding proposed for the port is subject to approval Friday by the state Bond Commission.

— stephen singer, courant.com, "Connecticut Seeks Boost For New London Port For Wind Turbine Equipment Transit," 29 May 2018
Last season on The Bachelor, Becca Kufrin was proposed to and then dumped by Arie Luyendyk in a live event that proved The Bachelor is as brutal as MMA.

— melissa locker, Time, "The Bachelorette Premiere Recap: After Arie, Becca Looks for Love," 29 May 2018
On the second day at sea, Roger, who was from Michigan and returning to America after traveling in Germany, proposed to Ilse, who was from Germany.

— tom hallman jr., OregonLive.com, "End of a story for a Hawthorne Boulevard bookstore: Tom Hallman," 27 May 2018
Definitely the weirdest request, this guy was proposing to his girlfriend and wanted two cakes.

— kristine m. kierzek, Milwaukee Journal Sentinel, "1 part talent + 1 part quirky = bakery success for Crumby Art in Elm Grove," 25 May 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.