Proponho que
Literalmente: I propose that
Use it to lead a group toward a decision politely and effectively by offering a clear suggestion.
En 15 segundos
- A polite way to suggest an idea or a plan.
- Requires the subjunctive mood in the following verb.
- Perfect for breaking a deadlock in group decisions.
Significado
This is a polite and direct way to say 'I suggest that' or 'I propose that'. It is the perfect phrase for when you want to offer an idea or lead a group toward a decision.
Ejemplos clave
3 de 6Deciding on dinner with friends
Proponho que a gente peça comida japonesa hoje.
I propose that we order Japanese food today.
In a professional meeting
Proponho que adiemos a reunião para amanhã.
I propose that we postpone the meeting until tomorrow.
Texting a partner about a date
Proponho que vejamos aquele filme novo no sábado.
I propose that we see that new movie on Saturday.
Contexto cultural
In Lusophone cultures, reaching a consensus is often more important than being the loudest person in the room. This phrase is a classic 'bridge-builder' used to navigate the delicate balance between personal desire and group harmony. It became a staple of professional and social etiquette as a way to show leadership through cooperation.
The Subjunctive Secret
Whenever you use 'que' after a verb of suggestion like 'propor', the next verb almost always changes its ending. Think of it as the 'suggestion signal'.
Don't be a Dictator
If you use this too much in a casual setting, you might sound like you're trying to manage your friends. Mix it up with 'Que tal?' to keep things breezy.
En 15 segundos
- A polite way to suggest an idea or a plan.
- Requires the subjunctive mood in the following verb.
- Perfect for breaking a deadlock in group decisions.
What It Means
Proponho que is your go-to phrase for taking initiative. It literally means "I propose that." It sounds sophisticated but remains very accessible. You are essentially putting an idea on the table for others to consider. It is more active than just saying "maybe we could."
How To Use It
This phrase is a grammar gateway. After Proponho que, you must use the Present Subjunctive. For example, Proponho que nós vamos is wrong; it should be Proponho que nós vamos. It sounds like a big rule, but it just adds that 'possibility' flavor to your speech. Use it to suggest dinner spots or project deadlines. It works perfectly with friends or your boss.
When To Use It
Use it when a group is indecisive. If your friends have been staring at a menu for twenty minutes, step in. Say Proponho que peçamos pizza. You can use it in business meetings to pivot the conversation. It is also great for resolving conflicts. It shows you are looking for a solution, not just complaining. It is the verbal equivalent of a 'lightbulb moment.'
When NOT To Use It
Do not use it for things that aren't suggestions. If you are giving a direct order, this is too soft. Avoid it in very high-intensity arguments where 'proposing' sounds sarcastic. Don't use it for facts. You wouldn't say Proponho que o sol é quente. Also, in very slang-heavy circles, it might feel a bit 'fancy'—like wearing a blazer to a beach party.
Cultural Background
Portuguese culture often values politeness and indirectness in social settings. Jumping straight to a command can feel aggressive. Proponho que acts as a social lubricant. It allows you to lead without sounding like a dictator. It reflects the collaborative spirit found in Portuguese family and work life. It is the language of the 'conciliador'—the person who brings everyone together.
Common Variations
If you want to sound more casual, use Que tal se... (How about if...). For a slightly more formal vibe, try Sugiro que... (I suggest that...). In Portugal, you might hear Eu sugeria que... using the conditional for extra politeness. If you are feeling bold, just use Bora... (Let's go...) for a very informal version. Each one changes the 'temperature' of your suggestion.
Notas de uso
This phrase sits comfortably in the neutral-to-formal range. It is highly effective in professional settings but perfectly natural in social situations where a decision needs to be made. Remember: the verb following 'que' must be in the subjunctive mood.
The Subjunctive Secret
Whenever you use 'que' after a verb of suggestion like 'propor', the next verb almost always changes its ending. Think of it as the 'suggestion signal'.
Don't be a Dictator
If you use this too much in a casual setting, you might sound like you're trying to manage your friends. Mix it up with 'Que tal?' to keep things breezy.
The 'Gentle Lead'
In Brazil, being too direct can be seen as rude. 'Proponho que' is a 'gentle lead'—it shows you have an idea but respects the other person's right to say no.
Ejemplos
6Proponho que a gente peça comida japonesa hoje.
I propose that we order Japanese food today.
Uses 'a gente' for a casual, friendly vibe.
Proponho que adiemos a reunião para amanhã.
I propose that we postpone the meeting until tomorrow.
A professional way to suggest a change in schedule.
Proponho que vejamos aquele filme novo no sábado.
I propose that we see that new movie on Saturday.
Direct but romantic and proactive.
Proponho que cada um lave sua própria louça.
I propose that everyone washes their own dishes.
A polite way to set a boundary or rule.
Proponho que a gente pare de andar e pegue um táxi agora!
I propose we stop walking and grab a taxi right now!
Using formal structure for a desperate, funny plea.
Proponho que esqueçamos o que aconteceu e recomecemos.
I propose that we forget what happened and start over.
Deeply sincere and constructive.
Ponte a prueba
Complete the sentence using the correct form of the verb 'fazer' (to do/make) in the subjunctive.
Proponho que nós ___ uma pausa para o café.
After 'Proponho que', you must use the present subjunctive. 'Façamos' is the 'nós' form of 'fazer' in the subjunctive.
Choose the best context for using 'Proponho que'.
___ a gente vá à praia amanhã?
While 'Eu quero' (I want) is possible, 'Proponho que' is the best fit for making a suggestion to a group.
🎉 Puntuación: /2
Ayudas visuales
Formality of Suggestions
Used with close friends and family.
Bora comer?
Safe for almost any situation.
Proponho que...
Academic or high-level business.
Venho propor que...
When to use 'Proponho que'
Business Meeting
Proponho uma nova estratégia.
Group Travel
Proponho que visitemos o museu.
Conflict Resolution
Proponho que conversemos depois.
Social Planning
Proponho que cada um traga um prato.
Preguntas frecuentes
10 preguntasNot at all! It's neutral. While Que tal is more common, Proponho que shows you are serious about your idea.
It's always the Present Subjunctive. For example: Proponho que ele fale (I propose that he speaks).
Yes! Proponho que fiquemos juntos (I propose we stay together) is very romantic and decisive.
The meaning is the same, but Portuguese people might use the conditional Proporia que to be even more polite.
Yes! In this case, you don't need que because you are proposing a noun (a toast), not an action.
Almost. Sugiro que is 'I suggest', while Proponho que is 'I propose'. Proposing feels slightly more active.
Just add 'não'. For example: Proponho que não vamos hoje (I propose that we don't go today).
Using the indicative mood. Saying Proponho que você vai sounds 'off' to native ears; it should be vá.
Yes, it's a great way to introduce a solution or a request in a professional email.
No, it's not slang. If you want slang for this, you'd just say E se...? or Bora?.
Frases relacionadas
Sugiro que
I suggest that
Que tal se
How about if
E se a gente...
What if we...
Bora
Let's go / Let's do it
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