propose

/prəˈpoʊz/
verbIntermediate
formalinformal

to suggest an idea, plan, or course of action for consideration

The committee will propose several changes to the policy.

The committee will suggest several changes to the policy.

He proposed marriage to his girlfriend.

He asked his girlfriend to marry him.

💡

In formal contexts, 'propose' is often used in official or professional settings. In informal contexts, it can be used to suggest ideas or plans in everyday conversation.

Collocations

propose a solutionto suggest a way to solve a problempropose a planto suggest a course of actionpropose a changeto suggest a modification

Synonyms

Antonyms

Related Phrases

propose tophrasal verb
to ask someone to marry you

💡Pro Tip

Formal vs. Informal Use

'Propose' is often used in formal settings, but it can also be used informally to suggest ideas or plans.

Gold Rule

Marriage Context

When used in the context of marriage, 'propose' specifically means to ask someone to marry you.

📖Word Origin

From Middle English 'proposen', from Old French 'proposer', from Latin 'proponere', meaning 'to set forth, propose'.

📝Usage Notes

The verb 'propose' is often used in formal or professional contexts, such as in business, politics, or academic settings. It can also be used in informal contexts to suggest ideas or plans. In the context of marriage, 'propose' specifically means to ask someone to marry you.

Word Breakdown

pro-
forward
prefix
+
-pose
to place or set
root
English Dictionary