How to Say "propose" in Spanish
The Spanish word for “propose” is “declarar” — B2 level.
English → SpanishB2
verbB2neutral/romantic
to declare love/marriage (declararse a alguien)
Examples
Finalmente se declaró a su mejor amiga en la fiesta.
He finally proposed to his best friend at the party. (Literally: declared himself to her)
Los trabajadores se declararon en huelga por los bajos salarios.
The workers declared a strike (declared themselves in strike) due to low wages.
The 'Se' Ending
When 'declarar' adds 'se' (declararse), the action reflects back onto the subject. It means the person is declaring their own internal state or commitment, like declaring love or declaring a strike.
Declararse A Alguien
To propose marriage or declare love, you must use the preposition 'a' followed by the person: 'Me declaré a ella' (I proposed to her).
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