proponer
“proponer” means “to propose” in Spanish (suggesting an idea or plan for consideration).
to propose, to suggest
Also: to put forward, to recommend
📝 In Action
Quiero proponerte algo.
A2I want to suggest something to you.
El manager propuso un nuevo plan de trabajo.
B1The manager proposed a new work plan.
¿Qué propones hacer este fin de semana?
A2What do you suggest doing this weekend?
Propusieron una solución al problema.
B1They proposed a solution to the problem.
Se propone candidato para las elecciones.
B2He/she is proposing himself/herself as a candidate for the elections.
🔄 Conjugations
indicative
present
imperfect
preterite
subjunctive
present
imperfect
🔀 Commonly Confused With
✏️ Quick Practice
Quick Quiz: proponer
Question 1 of 4
Which sentence correctly uses 'proponer'?
📚 More Resources
👥 Word Family▼
📚 Etymology▼
From Latin 'proponere' (to set forth, to place before). The Latin word comes from 'pro-' (forward) + 'ponere' (to place, to put).
First recorded: 13th century
Cognates (Related words)
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Frequently Asked Questions
Is 'proponer' a regular or irregular verb?
Proponer is a stem-changing verb (verb бо́ydчи改变). The 'o' in the stem changes to 'ue' in forms where the stress falls on the stem: propongo, propones, propone, proponemos, proponéis, proponen. However, the preterite (past) tense and past participle are regular: propuse, propusiste, propuso, etc., and propuesto.
Can 'proponer' be used reflexively?
Yes! When you say someone 'se propone' something, it means they intend or aim to do something. For example: 'Me propongo estudiar español' means 'I intend to study Spanish' or 'I set myself the goal of studying Spanish.' This is different from the non-reflexive meaning.
What's the difference between 'proponer' and 'presentar'?
Proponer means to suggest or put forward an idea for consideration, implying you're asking someone to accept or consider it. Presentar means to present or introduce something (like a person, a product, or information) without necessarily asking for approval. You 'present' a friend to your family, but you 'propose' a business idea to your boss.
How do I say 'to propose marriage' in Spanish?
You can say 'proponer matrimonio' or more commonly 'pedir matrimonio' or 'hacer una propuesta de matrimonio.' The verb 'proponer' works, but in practice, many Spanish speakers use 'pedir la mano' (to ask for the hand) for the traditional proposal.