merely putting forward

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "merely putting forward" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used when you want to indicate that you are simply suggesting or proposing something without any strong commitment or expectation. Example: "I am merely putting forward an idea for discussion, and I welcome any feedback from the team."

✓ Grammatically correct

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

60 human-written examples

The hypothesis just put forward has consequences.

Clinical and Experimental Metastasis

In response to this, his interlocutors point out that there is a difference between putting forward one's beliefs as if one knew them to be true, and putting them forward with the proviso that they are merely beliefs (Vogt 2012a, ch. 2).

SEP

Some countries are already putting forward names.

BBC

However, in practice, delegates merely endorse the names put forward by the party.

BBC

But it is the story of a lesbian relationship, and what made it obscene, according to the presiding magistrate, was that lesbian sex "is described as giving these women extraordinary rest, contentment, and pleasure; and not merely that, but it is actually put forward that it improves their mental balance and capacity".

The New Yorker

But he also put forward conditions.

The New York Times

Accuracy is obtained by merely putting a large linear weight on the central stencil.

Journal of Computational Physics

He cautioned against "cheerleading over racial symbolism" and suggested that Scott was merely the latest in a long line of "cynical tokens" put forward by Republicans.

The New Yorker

But mostly they seem to accept the arguments put forward by BlackRock and its lobbyists.Mr Fink encourages the perception that the company is merely big, not special perhaps even a little dull.

The Economist

The contrary, as put forward by Scriven and Paul (1987), is one who merely acquires and retains information along with possessing skills simply for their continued use.

Language Testing in Asia

A distinguishing characteristic of Bhāvaviveka's approach to Madhyamaka is his conviction that a Mādhyamika should put forward a positive argument for a position rather than merely showing the inadequacies of other positions.

SEP

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "merely putting forward" when you want to downplay the strength of your suggestion or idea. It signals that you're open to feedback and not strongly attached to the outcome.

Common error

Avoid using "merely putting forward" too frequently, as it can make you sound hesitant or lacking in confidence. In situations where you need to assert your ideas, use more direct language.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "merely putting forward" functions as a qualifying expression used to introduce a suggestion, idea, or argument with a sense of tentativeness or humility. It softens the force of the statement, signaling a willingness to consider alternative perspectives.

Expression frequency: Missing

Frequent in

Science

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Formal & Business

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Less common in

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Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "merely putting forward" is a phrase used to introduce a suggestion or idea with a sense of caution or tentativeness. It's grammatically correct and aims to minimize potential conflict by indicating openness to other viewpoints. While it has no real-world examples, based on Ludwig AI, and the lack of clear usage patterns, the phrase can be useful in both formal and informal settings. However, it's crucial to consider the context and your desired level of assertiveness when choosing to use this phrase.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

simply suggesting

Focuses on the act of suggesting without additional emphasis.

just proposing

Emphasizes the act of making a proposal without asserting it strongly.

only suggesting

Highlights that it's just a suggestion, nothing more.

tentatively proposing

Adds a sense of uncertainty or hesitation to the proposal.

humbly submitting

Conveys a sense of deference or respect in making the suggestion.

offering as a possibility

Frames the suggestion as one option among many.

raising for consideration

Focuses on bringing the idea to attention for evaluation.

floating the idea

Suggests a casual or informal way of introducing the idea.

positing as a hypothesis

Presents the idea as a preliminary assumption for further investigation.

advancing as a thought

Highlights the act of moving the idea forward for consideration.

FAQs

How can I use "merely putting forward" in a sentence?

You can use "merely putting forward" to introduce a suggestion or idea without seeming forceful or assertive. For example: "I am "merely putting forward" an idea for discussion, and I welcome any feedback from the team".

What's a more confident way to express the same idea as "merely putting forward"?

If you want to sound more confident, you can use phrases like "I suggest" or "I propose" instead of ""merely putting forward"".

When is it appropriate to use "merely putting forward"?

It's appropriate to use ""merely putting forward"" when you want to be polite, avoid confrontation, or indicate that you're open to alternative perspectives.

Is "merely putting forward" too weak for professional communication?

While ""merely putting forward"" can be useful in certain situations, it might be perceived as too passive in professional contexts. Consider your audience and the situation before using it.