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. to make an offer of marriage (to someone)

Other Word Forms

• proposable adjective
• proposer noun
• mispropose verb
• repropose verb
• unproposable adjective
• unproposing 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 paediatric department would be relocated within the refurbished ground and first floors of the existing treatment wing within Altnagelvin Hospital.

From BBC

Another vote on the short-term funding bill proposed by Republicans is expected on Friday.

From BBC

"There's currently more than a year's waiting list, and if the government brings in the reforms its proposing, it's going to get a lot worse," she says.

From BBC

I know it’s a hypothetical at this point, but do you think you would have followed through with proposing to Anna?

From Los Angeles Times

The two rules obtained by ProPublica are labeled as drafts and could change before they are officially proposed.

From Salon

Related Words

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