propose

[ pruh-pohz ]

verb (used with object)

proposed, proposing.

1. to offer or suggest (a matter, subject, case, etc.) for consideration, acceptance, or action:

   to propose a new method.

   Synonyms: counsel, suggest, tender, offer, proffer

   Antonyms: withdraw

2. to offer (a toast).
3. to suggest:

   He proposed that a messenger be sent.

4. to present or nominate (a person) for some position, office, membership, etc.

   Synonyms: nominate, name

5. to put before oneself as something to be done; design; intend.

   Synonyms: plan, aim

6. to present to the mind or attention; state.

   Synonyms: posit, pose

7. to propound (a question, riddle, etc.).

verb (used without object)

proposed, proposing.

1. to make an offer or suggestion, especially of marriage.
2. to form or consider a purpose or design.

propose

/ prəˈpəʊz /

verb

1. when tr, may take a clause as object to put forward (a plan, motion, etc) for consideration or action
2. tr to nominate, as for a position
3. tr to plan or intend (to do something)

   I propose to leave town now

4. tr to announce the drinking of (a toast) to (the health of someone, etc)
5. introften foll byto to make an offer of marriage (to someone)

Derived Forms

• proˈposable, adjective
• proˈposer, noun

Other Word Forms

• pro·pos·a·ble adjective
• pro·pos·er noun
• mis·pro·pose verb misproposed misproposing
• re·pro·pose verb reproposed reproposing
• un·pro·pos·a·ble adjective
• un·pro·pos·ing adjective

Word History and Origins

Origin of propose¹

First recorded in 1300–50; Middle English, from Middle French proposer ( pro- ¹, pose ¹ ), by association with derivatives of Latin prōpositus, past participle of prōpōnere “to set forth;” See propositus

Word History and Origins

Origin of propose¹

C14: from Old French proposer, from Latin prōpōnere to display, from pro- ¹+ pōnere to place

Synonym Study

See intend.

Example Sentences

The proposed new law, due to be scrutinised by the House of Lords this month, includes a right to guaranteed hours and cracks down on zero-hour contracts without the offer of work.

From BBC

Under the proposed meaning, it would take something like the actual shooting of an owl to qualify, he said.

From Los Angeles Times

Apparently Thompson proposed to Kardashian that year, but she turned him down and kept the proposal a secret.

From Los Angeles Times

As for her proposed crew mates, Gemma says she "couldn't think of a better five women to go".

From BBC

In Hackney, the proposed closure of St. Dominic's Catholic Primary School in Homerton resulted in strike action.

From BBC

Related Words

• ask
• come up with
• introduce
• nominate
• offer
• recommend
• request
• submit
• urge