Subscriber login


Forgot your password?

Library card login

Other

propose

Pronunciation: /prəˈpəʊz/
Translate propose | into French | into German | into Italian | into Spanish
Definition of propose

verb

  • 1 [with object] put forward (a plan or suggestion) for consideration by others:he proposed a new nine-point peace plan [with clause]:I proposed that the government should retain a 51 per cent stake in the company
  • nominate (someone) for an elected office or as a member of a society:Roy Thomson was proposed as chairman
  • put forward (a motion) to a legislature or committee:the government put its slim majority to the test by proposing a vote of confidence
  • [with infinitive] intend to do something:he proposed to attend the meeting
  • 2 [no object] make an offer of marriage to someone:I have already proposed to Sarah [with object]:one girl proposed marriage to him on the spot

Phrases

propose a toast (or propose someone's health)

ask a group of people at a social occasion to drink to the health and happiness of a specified person:the Lord Mayor proposed a toast to the Queen

Derivatives

proposer

noun
the proposer has ten minutes to speak in favour of his Bill

Origin:

Middle English: from Old French proposer, from Latin proponere (see proponent), but influenced by Latin propositus 'put or set forth' and Old French poser 'to place'

propose in other Oxford dictionaries

Definition of propose in the US English dictionary
  |  Cite
Oxford Dictionaries Pro

For Oxford's best resources for writers, plus thesaurus, audio, and 1.9m examples.

Shop for an Oxford dictionary

Find the perfect Oxford dictionary for you in our online shop.
SHOP NOW ►

Word of the day

cur

/ kəː /
noun
an aggressive or unkempt dog …