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

By contrast, a program to restrict soda in SNAP, as Kennedy has proposed, might require its own bureaucratic finagling at USDA, but could affect a significant portion of the 42 million people who use the program. —Nicholas Florko, The Atlantic, 3 Dec. 2024

What Blumenthal could do is propose making Section 8 vouchers as they are commonly called, more like cash and easier to use. —Roger Valdez, Forbes, 2 Dec. 2024

Join 27 others in the comments View Comments NRF estimates some of the new tariffs Trump proposed could make the price of some shoes go up by at least 18%, as brands consider moving to new manufacturing countries to save on costs. —Elisabeth Buchwald, CNN, 2 Dec. 2024

The couple began dating in August 2018 before Bryant proposed to Chenoweth in October 2021 on the rooftop of the Rainbow Room in New York City. —Jordana Comiter, People.com, 2 Dec. 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