proposes to

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "proposes to" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used when suggesting or putting forward an idea, plan, or course of action. Example: "The committee proposes to implement new policies to improve efficiency."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Wiki

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

59 human-written examples

This the writer proposes to doNnoW.

The New Yorker

It also proposes to educate children differently.

The New York Times

Japan proposes to do so this year.

The Economist

He also proposes to slash corporation tax.

The Economist

Kennedy proposes to make it serve.

The New Yorker

Now, it proposes to stop.

The New York Times

He proposes to begin negotiations at once.

The Guardian

Mr Balls proposes to split these roles.

The Guardian - Opinion

Mr. Tudor proposes to centralize the economy.

The New York Times

This is what she proposes to provide.

The New Yorker

But Mr. Bush proposes to make the problem worse.

The New York Times

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "proposes to", ensure the subject clearly states who is making the proposal. This avoids ambiguity and strengthens the clarity of your statement.

Common error

Using "proposes to" in the passive voice can obscure who is making the proposal. Instead of writing "It is proposed to...", specify the actor: "The committee proposes to..."

Linguistic Context

The phrase "proposes to" functions as a verb phrase introducing a plan, suggestion, or intention. It typically follows a noun or pronoun representing the entity making the proposal. Ludwig examples confirm its use to present actions or policies that are being considered or put forward.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

64%

Science

18%

Wiki

12%

Less common in

Formal & Business

4%

Reference

1%

Encyclopedias

1%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, the phrase "proposes to" is a versatile and grammatically correct construction used to introduce suggestions, plans, or intentions. As verified by Ludwig, it finds frequent application across various contexts, particularly in news, media, and scientific writing. While generally neutral in register, it conveys a formal tone. For greater clarity, active voice should be prioritized when using "proposes to". Alternatives like "intends to", "plans to", and "suggests" can be used depending on the intended nuance. To avoid ambiguity, clearly identify the actor making the proposal.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

intends to

Indicates a firm plan or decision, suggesting a higher degree of certainty than "proposes to".

plans to

Implies a schedule or arrangement has been made, offering a practical outlook.

suggests

Offers a recommendation or idea for consideration, less assertive than "proposes to".

recommends

Similar to 'suggests', but carries a stronger endorsement or advocacy.

aims to

Highlights the objective or goal being pursued, focusing on the purpose behind the action.

seeks to

Expresses an effort to achieve something, often implying a challenge or difficulty.

envisions

Describes a mental image of the future, focusing on a potential outcome rather than a concrete plan.

contemplates

Suggests thoughtful consideration before acting, indicating a more cautious approach.

is considering

Indicates that something is being actively thought about as a potential course of action.

is thinking of

Suggests a preliminary stage of planning or intention, less firm than 'intends to'.

FAQs

How can I use "proposes to" in a sentence?

Use "proposes to" to introduce a plan, suggestion, or intention. For example, "The government proposes to increase taxes" indicates a suggested action by the government.

What are some alternatives to "proposes to"?

Depending on the context, you can use alternatives like "intends to", "plans to", or "suggests" to convey similar meanings.

Is "proposes to" formal or informal?

"Proposes to" is generally considered neutral to formal. It is suitable for professional, academic, and journalistic writing but may be less common in casual conversation.

What is the difference between "proposes to" and "suggests"?

"Proposes to" indicates a more formal and concrete suggestion or plan, whereas "suggests" is a more general and less assertive recommendation.