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Grammar fix

put forward

propose (an idea, suggestion, or plan) for consideration

to suggest an idea, plan, or opinion for other people to think about or discuss, especially in a formal or group setting.

phrasal verbC1occasional

Hear it in context

Notice where the phrase sounds natural.

  • During the meeting, she put forward a new strategy to improve team productivity.work
  • In my opinion, it's important for employees to feel comfortable putting forward suggestions, as this can lead to innovation in the workplace.IELTS speaking

Fix the pattern

Pattern: put forward sth | put sth forward

WrongShe put forward of a new plan.

RightShe put forward a new plan. / She put a new plan forward.

'Put forward' takes the idea directly — no 'of'.

Patternput forward sth | put sth forward

Use it right

Choose the version that sounds natural in speech.

Stiff I should like to advance a proposition for the committee's deliberation.

Natural I'd like to put forward a proposal.

'Put forward' is the natural (if slightly formal) verb for proposing an idea; 'advance a proposition' is pompous.

Build natural chunks

Words that usually travel with it.

  • put forward + proposal
    a proposalan ideaa suggestiona name

Don't confuse it

'Put forward' is more formal and deliberate than 'bring up' (which means to mention something casually). It is also less direct than 'propose', which can sound stronger or more official.

Try it in Daily Speak →