What context can I use each word in?
Learn when and how to use these words with these examples!
offer
Example
I can offer you a ride to the airport. [offer: verb]
Example
She made an offer to help me with my project. [offer: noun]
Example
The store is offering a discount on all items this week. [offering: gerund or present participle]
propose
Example
I propose that we start the meeting with a quick icebreaker. [propose: verb]
Example
He proposed a new budget plan to the board of directors. [proposed: past tense]
Example
He got down on one knee and proposed to his girlfriend. [proposed: past tense]
Good things to know
Which word is more common?
Offer is more commonly used than propose in everyday language. Offer is versatile and covers a wide range of contexts, while propose is less common and refers to more specific situations.
Whatโs the difference in the tone of formality between offer and propose?
While offer is typically associated with a neutral and informal tone, propose is more formal and is often used in academic or professional settings.