# put sth forward

CEFR B2 · Phrasal verb

Source: https://englishreference.com/word/put-sth-forward
Updated: 2026-04-24

## Definition

to suggest an idea, plan, or person so that other people can consider or discuss them.

For teachers: to propose a theory, suggestion, or candidate for consideration; often used in formal or professional contexts to initiate a debate or selection process.

## Examples

- She put forward a new plan for the project.
- During the meeting, several members put forward interesting ideas for the upcoming charity event.
- The committee decided to put forward his name as a potential candidate for the directorship despite his lack of seniority.

## Pitfalls

- Not "He put forward to the idea." but "He put forward the idea." — the verb is transitive and takes a direct object without the preposition 'to'.

## Usage notes

- the object is usually an abstract noun like 'idea', 'suggestion', or 'theory', or a person's name.
- Teaching tip: contrast with 'propose' (more formal) and 'suggest' (more general); note that 'put forward' is common in academic and business writing to introduce hypotheses.

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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.