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propose

verb
pro·​pose | \ prə-ˈpōz How to pronounce propose (audio) \
proposed; proposing

Definition of propose

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

1a : 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
2a : 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
Other Words from propose Synonyms More Example Sentences Learn More about propose

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Other Words from propose

proposer noun

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.
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Recent Examples on the Web

 Smart and Safe Arizona will accept most of the changes proposed by the review, said spokeswoman Stacy Pearson, senior vice president with Strategies 360 in Phoenix. — Ryan Randazzo, azcentral, "Arizona marijuana ballot measure will advance with minor changes after review," 9 Sep. 2019 In contrast, curator Sandahl sees the definition proposed by her committee as catching up to practices that are already ongoing in the museum world. — Suyin Haynes, Time, "Why a Plan to Redefine the Meaning of 'Museum' Is Stirring Up Controversy," 9 Sep. 2019 Looking at the 2% wealth tax proposed by French economist Thomas Piketty, the Tax Foundation estimated a 4.2% reduction in American wages, a 13% reduction in the capital stock, 900,000 jobs lost and a 4.9% reduction in GDP. — Tracy C. Miller, Twin Cities, "Tracy C. Miller: Wealth tax won’t stand up to scrutiny," 8 Sep. 2019 The company and subsidiary Pacific Gas and Electric Co. intend to formally propose their plan by Monday. — J.d. Morris, SFChronicle.com, "PG&E preparing to file bankruptcy exit plan, including $14 billion investment," 6 Sep. 2019 That’s why an amendment to Denver’s landmark ordinance being proposed by Councilwoman Kendra Black is important. — Vincent Carroll, The Denver Post, "Carroll: Denver should toughen rules to avoid conflicts like Tom’s Diner," 6 Sep. 2019 Fans online erupted with harsh criticisms of Brown, questioning how the openly gay television star could ignore Spicer's many public defenses of anti-LGBTQ policies proposed by the Trump administration. — Laura Hanrahan, Woman's Day, "'Queer Eye' Star Karamo Brown Breaks His Silence After Controversial DWTS Comments," 6 Sep. 2019 The fate of the Plant, a long-in-the-works mixed-use project proposed for Costa Mesa’s Sobeca district, will once again be in the City Council’s hands Tuesday. — Daily Pilot, "Costa Mesa council to take another look at the Plant, a long-discussed commercial-residential project," 30 Aug. 2019 Now, five of those new moons have received official names proposed by the public during a contest earlier this year. — Jason Daley, Smithsonian, "Astronomers Name Five of Jupiter’s New Moons," 27 Aug. 2019

These example sentences are selected automatically from various online news sources to reflect current usage of the word 'propose.' Views expressed in the examples do not represent the opinion of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback.

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First Known Use of propose

14th century, in the meaning defined at intransitive sense 1

History and Etymology for propose

Middle English, from Anglo-French purposer, proposer, from Latin proponere (perfect indicative proposui) — more at propound

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More Definitions for propose

propose

verb
How to pronounce propose (audio)

English Language Learners Definition of propose

: to suggest (something, such as a plan or theory) to a person or group of people to consider
: to plan or intend to do (something)
: to suggest (someone) for a job, position, office, etc.

See the full definition for propose in the English Language Learners Dictionary

propose

verb
pro·​pose | \ prə-ˈpōz How to pronounce propose (audio) \
proposed; proposing

Kids Definition of propose

1 : to make a suggestion to be thought over and talked about : suggest
2 : to make plans : intend How do you propose to pay for a new bike?
3 : to make an offer of marriage
4 : to suggest (someone) for filling a place or position I proposed my teacher for the award.

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More from Merriam-Webster on propose

Rhyming Dictionary: Words that rhyme with propose

Thesaurus: All synonyms and antonyms for propose

Spanish Central: Translation of propose

Nglish: Translation of propose for Spanish Speakers

Britannica English: Translation of propose for Arabic Speakers

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