proposer
/pʁɔ.po.ze/
The English verb 'propose' is translated into French as proposer.
proposer is used to suggest a plan, an idea or a course of action. It is the standard, everyday word for 'to suggest' an option to others.
Meaning: to suggest a plan or course of action (verb)
Which one should you use?
While proposer can mean 'to propose' in a formal sense, it is the standard, everyday word for 'to suggest' an idea or an option.
How does it change in a sentence?
The verb typically follows the construction proposer quelque chose à quelqu'un (to propose something to someone). The noun form of the verb is une proposition.
How do you pronounce it?
/pʁɔ.po.ze/
What mistakes should you avoid?
Do not use proposer to mean 'to propose marriage'. To express a marriage proposal, use the phrase faire une demande en mariage.
Did you know?
- The French word for a marriage proposal is demande, which literally means 'a request' or 'a demand'.
- While English speakers 'propose a toast', the French use the verb porter, meaning they 'carry' a toast.
- The verb proposer shares a root with poser, which means 'to put' or 'to place'. This reflects the original idea of 'placing' an idea before someone for consideration.
Examples in context
- Que voulez-vous proposer pour le nouveau poste ?What do you want to propose for the new job?This sentence uses proposer to ask what someone wants to suggest for a new position.Tatoeba #497379 by Bruno, translation #497982 by FeuDRenais
- L'idée de proposer aux salariés des formations sur ordinateur fait son chemin dans les entreprises.The idea to propose computer-based training to salaried employees is maturing in businesses.This sentence uses proposer in the context of suggesting training to employees.Tatoeba #755641 by sacredceltic, translation #1744270 by belgavox
- Je tiens à lui proposer une collaboration dans ce projet ambitieux.I would like to propose a collaboration to him/her in this ambitious project.
- J'ai l'honneur de vous présenter ma proposition pour notre prochaine campagne publicitaire.I have the honor of presenting my proposal for our next advertising campaign to you.
- Elle va finalement se mettre à genoux et lui demander en mariage.She is finally going to get down on one knee and propose to him.
- Il a décidé de faire sa demande lors de leur prochain voyage romantique.He has decided to propose during their next romantic trip.
- Je vais proposer une solution demain.I am going to propose a solution tomorrow.
Example conversation
Hugo and Manon are discussing a project at work.
- HugoQue vas-tu proposer au client ?What are you going to propose to the client?
- ManonJe veux proposer un nouveau plan.I want to propose a new plan.
- HugoC'est une excellente idée, Manon.That is an excellent idea, Manon.
- ManonMerci, Hugo, j'espère qu'il acceptera.Thanks, Hugo, I hope he accepts.
Sources
- Wiktionary, “propose” translations and entries proposer, CC BY-SA 4.0, dump of 2026-09-26.
- Word origins: Wiktionary entries proposer, CC BY-SA 4.0.
- Example sentences: Tatoeba CC BY 2.0 FR.
