propose

verb

pro·​pose prə-ˈpōz 

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

Synonyms of propose

• suggest
• pose

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

Rogers also has proposed suspending the state and federal gas tax of 70 cents a gallon, which the former congressman said would benefit farmers and truckers who are spending more on fuel and passing the costs on to Michiganders. — Frank Witsil, Freep.com, 22 Sep. 2026

Combined, the three had 14 space exploration missions that were proposed to be canceled or delayed, the report stated. — Eric Niiler, Scientific American, 22 Sep. 2026

Last year, Georgia Power proposed and received approval for a historic power grid expansion to support data centers that drew the ire of its customers and led to a political upheaval at the PSC. — Kristi Swartz, AJC.com, 22 Sep. 2026

Grice’s implicature theory The conversational maxims proposed by Grice may be understood as common practices by means of which speakers and hearers rationally cooperate and thereby efficiently communicate with each other. — Encyclopedia Britannica, 22 Sep. 2026

Word History

Etymology

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

First Known Use

14th century, in the meaning defined at intransitive sense 1

Phrases Containing propose

• propose a toast
• propose marriage

Rhymes for propose

• aloes
• arose
• bestows
• boroughs
• buboes
• cargoes
• cocos
• compos
• compose
• crossbows
• demos
• depose

Kids Definition

propose

verb

pro·​pose prə-ˈpōz 

proposed; proposing

1

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

propose a new theory

2

: to make plans : intend

propose to buy a new house

3

: to suggest for filling a place or office

propose someone for membership

4

: to make an offer of marriage

proposer noun