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

• advance
• bounce
• offer
• pose
• proffer
• propound
• suggest
• vote

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

This year, Trump has taken increasingly extreme anti-business, including proposing draconian, universal 10% tariffs on all imports from all countries, which would hurt businesses and consumers while raising prices across the board. —Steven Tian, Fortune, 29 Oct. 2024

The origin of the tradition of placing the Day of the Dead offerings for pets on Oct. 27 was born in 2019 when a funeral services company for animals based in Mexico proposed to carry out this commemoration. —Paula Soria, The Arizona Republic, 29 Oct. 2024

The Los Angeles Times and Washington Post have seen significant subscription cancellations in the days since their billionaire owners decided not to endorse in the presidential race after the editorial boards at both newspapers proposed backing Vice President Kamala Harris. —James Rainey, Los Angeles Times, 29 Oct. 2024

The governor then proposed slashing $280 billion from the program — arguing cuts were needed to close a multibillion-dollar budget deficit — before ultimately agreeing to fund it fully. —Ethan Varian, The Mercury News, 29 Oct. 2024

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

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