What are the definitions of “put forward”?
Learn how to use these expressions through these examples
- 1To propose or suggest.
After much in-fighting and clandestine meetings in back rooms, three names were put forward as the front runners.
- 2To suggest or propose oneself for a position or task.
I’ve thought about putting myself forward to chair the meeting.
- 3To propose or suggest.
There was also the idea, put forward by Theory, that they might detect extremely small bursts of Hawking radiation from the ship.
What’s the most common meaning of the phrasal verb “put forward”?
The most common meaning of the phrasal verb put forward is to propose or suggest an idea, plan, or person for consideration. It is often used in the context of meetings, discussions, or debates where people share their thoughts and suggestions.
What are the different verb forms of “put forward”?
| Root Verb | put forward |
| Third Person Singular Present | puts forward |
| Present Participle | putting forward |
| Simple Past | put forward |
| Past Participle | put forward |
Example
She put forward a new idea during the brainstorming session.
Example
He always puts forward interesting suggestions at the meetings.
Example
They are putting forward a proposal for the new project.
Example
Yesterday, she put forward a plan to improve the company's efficiency.
Example
Several ideas have been put forward for discussion.
What kind of phrasal verb is “put forward”?
Notes from a Native English Speaker
What is a transitive and intransitive verb? - A transitive verb always has an object after it. (Example: Sam bought a car.) - An intransitive verb never has an object.(Example: She laughed loudly.)
Transitive verb
“put forward” is a transitive phrasal verb because it requires a direct object to complete its meaning. The direct object specifies what is being removed, obtained, or eliminated.
Example
The team put forward a new strategy.
Example
She put her name forward for the position.
Notes from a Native English Speaker
What is a separable and inseparable phrasal verb? - A “separable phrasal verb” can be separated with an object between the verb and particle. - An “inseparable phrasal verb” cannot be separated by an object.
Inseparable
“put forward” is an inseparable phrasal verb. This means that you can’t place an object between the verb and the particle, otherwise, it changes the meaning of the phrasal verb.
Example
The team put forward a new strategy.
Example
She put her name forward for the position.
What are common phrases and expressions that include the phrasal verb “put forward”?
Good things to know
Does “put forward” have an informal or formal tone?
Put forward is a neutral phrasal verb that can be used in both formal and informal contexts. It is commonly used in business meetings, academic discussions, and everyday conversations when people want to propose or suggest ideas, plans, or candidates.
