PUT FORWARD

📖 Definition

To 'put forward' means to suggest or propose an idea or plan for others to consider or discuss, often in a formal setting.

Examples in context

📖 Definition

To 'put forward' means to suggest or propose an idea or plan for others to consider or discuss, often in a formal setting.

📝 Grammar Info

Separable
Yes
The object can be placed between 'put' and 'forward' or after 'forward'.
Register
Neutral
Can be used in both formal and informal contexts.
Transitive
Yes
Requires a direct object, usually an idea or proposal.

📊 Conjugation Table

Tense Form Example
Present Simple put forward She put forward a new proposal at the meeting.
Past Simple put forward He put forward his ideas last week.
Present Continuous putting forward They are putting forward their suggestions today.
Present Perfect have put forward We have put forward several options for consideration.

💡 When to Use

Proposing a new idea
Use 'put forward' to introduce a new idea or plan for discussion or evaluation.
Example: "During the meeting, she put forward a strategy for increasing sales."
Offering suggestions
Employ 'put forward' when you want to offer suggestions to solve a problem.
Example: "He put forward some interesting solutions to the issue."
Formal presentations
In formal settings, 'put forward' helps introduce official proposals or documents.
Example: "The committee put forward a motion to approve the budget."

⚠️ Common Mistakes

Incorrect object placement
❌ Wrong: Put the proposal forward today.
✅ Correct: Put forward the proposal today.
💡 Tip: Remember 'put forward' as a single unit for clarity.
Using with intransitive verbs
❌ Wrong: He put forward quickly.
✅ Correct: He put forward his idea quickly.
💡 Tip: Ensure 'put forward' has a direct object.
Tense confusion
❌ Wrong: She putting forward it.
✅ Correct: She is putting it forward.
💡 Tip: Combine continuous tense with auxiliary verbs properly.
Practice

PUT FORWARD - IN PRACTICE

Study Method Proposal

  1. Listen and repeat the audio as many times as needed to improve your pronunciation
  2. Use the audio as a dictation exercise, trying to write what you hear and understand
  3. Create a new sentence following the structure of the example sentences

Examples in Context

Synonyms & Antonyms

Synonyms

propose suggest

Antonyms

withdraw

Quick Check

Complete the sentence with the correct phrasal verb:

"During the meeting, she ___ a new plan for the project."

put forwards
put forward
puts forward
putting forward

"To put forward an idea is to plant a seed; through nurturing discourse, growth is found in the realms of wisdom and innovation."

In Context

In 1848 in Seneca Falls, New York, a pivotal women's rights convention took place. Elizabeth Cady Stanton, a staunch advocate for women's suffrage, put forward the groundbreaking Declaration of Sentiments. This document, inspired by Jefferson's Declaration of Independence, boldly put forward grievances and demands for equal rights, including the controversial right for women to vote. During the convention, heated debates ensued as critics argued against the radical proposals, yet many allies rallied behind Stanton. She and her supporters consistently put forward compelling arguments, emphasizing the necessity for societal reform. This event marked a significant moment in history, as it was one of the first organized attempts to collectively put forward women's rights on a public platform. As the convention concluded, the Declaration of Sentiments was adopted, signaling a unifying call to action. Elizabeth Cady Stanton's decision to put forward these bold ideas paved the way for future movements, inspiring generations to continue the struggle for gender equality.

Frequently Asked Questions about Put Forward

What is the origin of put forward?

+
The phrase 'put forward' originates from the early 14th century. 'Put' stems from Middle English, while 'forward' implies progress. This phrasal verb evolved to describe the act of presenting ideas or proposals for consideration.

Can put forward be used in formal and informal contexts?

+
Yes, 'put forward' suits both formal and informal contexts. It's versatile for work presentations and casual discussions, enhancing clarity when proposing ideas or suggestions in various settings.

What is the difference between put forward and propose?

+
While both mean suggesting ideas, 'put forward' often implies a preliminary presentation for discussion, whereas 'propose' is more formal, often suggesting a complete plan for immediate decision or action.
Browse All National Parks Phrasal Verbs
National Parks Phrasal Verbs - WeeklyCross
Alessandra Nóbrega
About the Author

Alessandra Nóbrega

History teacher who fell in love with English! This passion led me to specialize in languages and work on bilingual education projects. With 37 years in education, I believe learning should be meaningful – not just memorization.

Learn more about my journey



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