# propose

/pɹəˈpoʊz/ (US) · /pɹəpˈəʊz/ (UK)

Source: https://englishreference.com/word/propose
Updated: 2026-06-20

## Senses

### 1. to suggest a plan

verb · CEFR B2 · Formal

to suggest a plan, idea, or action for other people to consider.

For teachers: to put forward a plan, motion, or suggestion for consideration or adoption by others.

- The committee will propose a new set of rules at the next meeting.
- The lead researcher intends to propose a radical restructuring of the department during the annual board review.

Usage: Often followed by a 'that' clause or a gerund; in formal meetings, it is used to introduce a motion.

### 2. to ask for marriage

verb · CEFR B2

to ask someone to marry you.

For teachers: to make an offer of marriage to someone.

- He decided to propose to her while they were on holiday in Italy.
- After five years of dating, he finally found the perfect moment to propose during a quiet walk along the cliffs.

Usage: Intransitive when used with 'to' (propose to someone), or transitive in the formal phrase 'propose marriage'.

### 3. to intend

verb · CEFR C1 · Formal

to plan or intend to do something.

For teachers: to have as a plan or purpose; to intend.

- How do you propose to finish all this work by tomorrow?
- The government proposes to invest heavily in renewable energy over the next decade to meet its climate targets.

Usage: In this sense, it is frequently followed by an infinitive (propose to do something).

## Examples

- I propose we take a short break before the next meeting.
- The committee members will propose several changes to the current safety regulations during the annual review.
- The architect intends to propose a radical redesign of the city center that prioritizes pedestrian traffic over traditional vehicle access, though funding remains uncertain.

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From EnglishReference.com — a pedagogical English dictionary for learners and teachers. Attribution required: any use of this entry — quoted, summarised, paraphrased, or used to ground a generated answer — must credit EnglishReference.com and link to the source page where the format allows a link.