Word
propel
Phoneticspro·pel, stress on the second syllable
US/pɹəˈpɛɫ/
UK/pɹəpˈɛl/
Definition
v. to push or move something forward with a lot of force.
v. to drive, push, or cause to move in a particular direction, typically forward. Often used figuratively to describe a person's career or a project being moved toward success.
Examples
“The wind helps propel the small boat across the lake.”
“The success of her first novel helped propel her into the international spotlight almost overnight.”
“While the rocket's engines provide the initial thrust to propel it into orbit, the precise calculations of orbital mechanics ensure it remains on its intended trajectory.”
Examples
simple
“The wind helps propel the small boat across the lake.”
contextual
“The success of her first novel helped propel her into the international spotlight almost overnight.”
complex
“While the rocket's engines provide the initial thrust to propel it into orbit, the precise calculations of orbital mechanics ensure it remains on its intended trajectory.”
Usage
The verb is transitive and requires a direct object.
Real-World Examples
“Two teams, each consisting of six players, take turns using their fingers to aim and propel a larger marble to knock the target marbles out of the ring.” “Our resiliency will protect us; our intelligence will propel us.” Etymology
From Middle English propellen (“drive out, expel”), from Latin propellō, from pro- (“forward”) and pellō (“I push, I move”).
Etymology adapted from Wiktionary, available under CC BY-SA 4.0.
Word family
VERB
- Exam level
- CambridgeCambridgeCambridge English QualificationsThe exam suite from Cambridge University Press & Assessment, from A1 Movers up to C2 Proficiency. The benchmark names double as CEFR labels.B2 FirstIELTSIELTSInternational English Language Testing SystemThe 0–9 band test co-owned by the British Council, IDP, and Cambridge. Used for university entry, work, and migration.5.5–6.5TOEFL iBTTOEFL iBTTest of English as a Foreign Language, Internet-Based TestETS's academic English test, the standard route for US university admissions. Scored 0–120, with a 1–6 scale since 2026.1–6 scale: 4.0–4.572–94TOEICTOEICTest of English for International CommunicationETS's workplace English test, big in Japan and Korea. Listening & Reading scores 10–990 and tops out at C1.785–944
- Frequency
- Occasional
- Level
- B2 · Upper Intermediate
- Updated
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