I propose that
Presentation and public speaking expression
Use this phrase to sound professional and assertive when presenting a plan to a group.
En 15 secondes
- A formal way to suggest a serious plan or idea.
- Commonly used in meetings, presentations, and official documents.
- Followed by a full clause to explain the suggestion.
Signification
This phrase is a formal way to suggest an idea or a plan to a group. It shows you have thought about your suggestion and are ready to discuss it seriously.
Exemples clés
3 sur 6In a business meeting
I propose that we increase the marketing budget by ten percent.
I suggest that we increase the marketing budget by ten percent.
Planning a trip with friends (humorous)
I propose that we stop for burgers before we lose our minds.
I suggest we eat burgers before we get too hungry.
Texting a group about a project
I propose that we meet on Zoom at 8 PM tonight.
I suggest we have a Zoom meeting at 8 PM.
Contexte culturel
The phrase is deeply rooted in parliamentary procedure and formal debating traditions in the UK and US. It reflects a cultural value of structured, respectful public discourse. Today, it is a staple of corporate leadership and academic presentations.
The Subjunctive Secret
If you want to sound like a CEO, use the base form of the verb after 'that'. Say 'I propose that she *join* us' instead of 'joins'.
Don't confuse with marriage
While 'propose' is used for marriage, you usually say 'I proposed to her.' Using 'I propose that we get married' sounds like a business deal!
En 15 secondes
- A formal way to suggest a serious plan or idea.
- Commonly used in meetings, presentations, and official documents.
- Followed by a full clause to explain the suggestion.
What It Means
This phrase is your power move for making suggestions. It tells people you have a serious plan to share. You aren't just guessing or thinking out loud. You are putting a formal idea on the table for everyone. It sounds organized, confident, and very professional.
How To Use It
Follow the phrase with a full sentence explaining your idea. For example, I propose that we start the meeting early. In very formal English, people use the 'subjunctive' mood. This means you might say I propose that he be invited instead of is invited. It sounds a bit fancy, but it works perfectly in speeches.
When To Use It
Use this in business meetings or school presentations. It is great for solving a problem with a group. You can also use it when writing a formal letter. It works well when you want to lead a discussion. It makes your ideas sound like they have more weight.
When NOT To Use It
Avoid this phrase for very small, casual things. Don't say I propose that we watch a movie to your roommate. It will sound like you are giving a speech in your pajamas. Unless you are being funny, stick to Let's for casual hangouts. It is too heavy for choosing a pizza topping.
Cultural Background
This phrase comes from the world of law and formal debates. In English-speaking countries, meetings often follow 'Robert's Rules of Order.' These are specific rules for how to talk in a group. In these rules, you 'make a motion' by saying I move that or I propose that. It is a sign of a polite, democratic society.
Common Variations
I suggest that is a slightly softer version of this. I move that is the version used in official government meetings. If you want to be very casual, just say How about we.... For a middle ground, try I'd like to suggest... to sound friendly but professional.
Notes d'usage
This phrase is high-register and should be reserved for professional or academic environments. Using it in casual settings is usually perceived as ironic or humorous.
The Subjunctive Secret
If you want to sound like a CEO, use the base form of the verb after 'that'. Say 'I propose that she *join* us' instead of 'joins'.
Don't confuse with marriage
While 'propose' is used for marriage, you usually say 'I proposed to her.' Using 'I propose that we get married' sounds like a business deal!
The Power of the Pause
In English culture, saying 'I propose that' followed by a short pause makes your following idea sound much more important.
Exemples
6I propose that we increase the marketing budget by ten percent.
I suggest that we increase the marketing budget by ten percent.
This sounds decisive and professional in a corporate setting.
I propose that we stop for burgers before we lose our minds.
I suggest we eat burgers before we get too hungry.
Using formal language for a simple task creates a funny effect.
I propose that we meet on Zoom at 8 PM tonight.
I suggest we have a Zoom meeting at 8 PM.
Even in text, it keeps the group focused and organized.
I propose that the committee reconsider the current environmental policy.
I suggest the committee looks at the environmental policy again.
This is the classic, most formal use of the expression.
I propose that we set aside our differences for the team.
I suggest we stop fighting to help the team.
This uses a serious tone to address an emotional situation.
I propose that we host the bake sale in the park.
I suggest the park for our bake sale.
It helps clear up confusion when many people are talking.
Teste-toi
Choose the best word to complete the formal suggestion.
I propose ___ we hire a new consultant for this project.
The phrase `I propose that` must be followed by a clause starting with `that`.
Which verb form sounds most formal in this proposal?
I propose that he ___ given a second chance.
Using `be` is the subjunctive mood, which is common in very formal proposals.
🎉 Score : /2
Aides visuelles
Formality Levels of Making Suggestions
Used with close friends or family.
Let's...
Good for daily office talk.
I suggest we...
Presentations and official meetings.
I propose that...
Where to use 'I propose that'
Boardroom Meeting
Proposing a new strategy.
Public Speech
Suggesting a policy change.
Formal Email
Outlining a project plan.
Classroom Debate
Arguing for a specific point.
Questions fréquentes
11 questionsMostly, yes. It is best for formal settings like meetings or academic writing where you need to sound authoritative.
You can, but it usually sounds like a joke. For example, I propose that we stop for ice cream sounds funny because it is so formal.
Propose is stronger and more formal than suggest. A proposal is usually a complete plan, while a suggestion can be just a quick thought.
In formal writing, yes. In spoken English, people sometimes skip it, saying I propose we go, but keeping that is safer for learners.
Yes, it is excellent for professional emails. It helps you clearly state your recommendation to a client or boss.
Not if used correctly. It sounds assertive and organized, which is usually respected in Western business culture.
Yes, you can say I propose to start the project. This is also formal but focuses more on the action you will take.
The past tense is I proposed that. You use this when reporting what happened in a previous meeting.
Yes, it is very common in both British and American English, especially in government and legal contexts.
Usually, you just say I proposed. If you use the full phrase I propose that we marry, it sounds like a legal contract!
A common mistake is using it for very minor things. Don't use it to ask for a napkin at dinner; it's too formal.
Expressions liées
I move that
A very formal way to start a vote in a meeting.
I suggest that
A neutral, common way to share an idea.
I recommend that
Used when you are an expert giving advice.
It is my recommendation that
Extremely formal way to present a conclusion.
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