propose

To suggest a plan or action for people to consider.

• I propose a short break.
• She proposed changing the meeting time.
• What solution would you propose?

How to use it: propose doing something (He proposed taking the train.); propose that… (I propose that we meet next week.)

Similar words: suggest, put forward

Common phrases: propose a plan, propose a solution, propose doing something

To put forward an idea or explanation that you think is better than existing ones.

• She proposed a new theory.
• Researchers propose that sleep helps organize memories.
• His book proposed a different explanation for the discovery.

How to use it: propose that… (The authors propose that climate shaped these changes.)

Similar words: put forward, suggest

Common phrases: propose a theory, propose an explanation, propose a hypothesis

To ask someone to marry you.

• He plans to propose tonight.
• She proposed to her boyfriend on holiday.
• Did he propose with a ring?

How to use it: propose to someone (Anna proposed to her partner yesterday.)

Similar words: ask for someone’s hand

Common phrases: propose to someone, propose marriage

To intend or plan to do something.

• We propose to leave at noon.
• How do you propose to solve this problem?
• The company proposes to open three new stores.

How to use it: propose to do something (They propose to continue the project next year.)

Similar words: intend, plan

Common phrases: propose to do, propose to continue, propose to proceed

To invite people to raise their glasses and drink to honor someone or celebrate something.

• May I propose a toast?
• She proposed a toast to the happy couple.
• At dinner, he proposed a toast to their success.

How to use it: propose a toast to someone/something (I propose a toast to our hosts.)

Common phrases: propose a toast, propose the toast