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How to Say "to propose" in Spanish

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proponer

proh-poh-NEHRpɾo.poˈneɾ

verbA2
Use 'proponer' when you are suggesting an idea, a plan, or a course of action for someone else to consider.
A friendly person presenting a lightbulb to a small group of people sitting at a table.

Examples

Te propongo que vayamos al cine esta noche.

I propose that we go to the cinema tonight.

Quiero proponerte algo.

I want to suggest something to you.

El manager propuso un nuevo plan de trabajo.

The manager proposed a new work plan.

¿Qué propones hacer este fin de semana?

What do you suggest doing this weekend?

Stem-changing verb

Proponer is a stem-changing verb! The 'o' in the stem changes to 'ue' in some forms. Notice: propongo, propones, propone, proponen. But in the past tense (preterite) and past participle, it stays regular: propuse, propusiste, propuesto.

Using 'proponer' with other verbs

When you want to propose that someone else do something, use 'proponer + infinitivo' (to propose doing something) or 'proponer que + subjunctive' (to propose that someone do something). Example: 'Propongo ir al cine' (I suggest going to the movies) or 'Propongo que vayamos al cine' (I suggest we go to the movies).

Confusing proponer with ofrecer

Correction: Use 'proponer' for ideas and suggestions: 'Te propongo un cambio' (I suggest a change). Use 'ofrecer' for things you're presenting: 'Te ofrezco mi ayuda' (I offer you my help).

sugerir

soo-heh-reersu.xe.ˈɾiɾ

verbB1
Use 'sugerir' when you are putting forward a formal suggestion or recommendation, often implying it's a good idea for the other person.
A person holding a glowing lightbulb and offering it to a group of friends sitting around a table.

Examples

El médico me sugirió descansar más.

The doctor suggested I get more rest.

Te sugiero que leas este libro.

I suggest that you read this book.

¿Qué me sugieres para cenar?

What do you suggest I have for dinner?

The 'Que' Rule

When you suggest that someone else should do something, use 'que' followed by a special verb form (the subjunctive). For example: 'Sugiero que hables con ella' (I suggest that you talk to her).

Stem Changes

This verb is tricky! The 'e' in the middle changes to 'ie' in most present forms (sugiero), and it even changes to a single 'i' in the past (sugirió) and the special wish-forms (sugiramos).

Missing the 'Que'

Mistake: “Sugiero tú vas.”

Correction: Sugiero que vayas. You need 'que' to link the two parts of the sentence and the special subjunctive verb form.

ofrecer

o-fre-séro.fɾeˈseɾ

verbA1
Use 'ofrecer' when you are presenting something tangible or an option, like a service, a drink, or a deal, rather than a plan or idea to be acted upon.
A cheerful cartoon character offers a brightly colored, wrapped gift box with both hands to another unseen character.

Examples

Nos ofrecieron un descuento especial.

They offered us a special discount.

El camarero nos ofreció café y postre.

The waiter offered us coffee and dessert.

Le ofrecí mi ayuda para mover los muebles.

I offered him my help to move the furniture.

La empresa ofrece un servicio de atención al cliente excelente.

The company provides excellent customer service.

The 'Yo' Form Irregularity (c > zc)

In the present tense, the 'yo' form changes from 'ofreco' to 'ofrezco'. This 'zc' pattern is required for all verbs ending in '-ecer' and '-ucir' (like 'conocer' or 'traducir').

Forgetting the 'zc'

Mistake: “Yo ofreco”

Correction: Yo ofrezco. The 'zc' sound is needed to connect the verb stem to the 'o' ending.

Proponer vs. Sugerir

Learners often confuse 'proponer' and 'sugerir'. Remember that 'proponer' is more about putting forward a plan or idea for group decision or action, while 'sugerir' is a softer recommendation, often directed at an individual's benefit.

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