vorschlagen
/ˈfoːɐ̯ʃlaːɡən/
Definition
To suggest or propose an idea, plan, or option to someone.
Example
Ich schlage vor, dass wir morgen früh treffen.
Show translation
I suggest that we meet early tomorrow.
Etymology
A separable compound verb from *vor-* ("fore-, in front of") + *schlagen* ("to strike, beat"). The semantic shift from "striking forward" to "putting forward an idea" parallels English *to put forward* and French *proposer* — the notion of placing something in front of others for consideration.
Cultural note
In German professional and academic culture, *vorschlagen* (and the related noun *Vorschlag*, "suggestion/proposal") is the standard, polite register for offering ideas — neither too blunt nor overly formal. Watch out for the false friend trap: English "to propose" can mean a marriage proposal, but *vorschlagen* is never used in that romantic sense; Germans say *einen Heiratsantrag machen* for that.