vorschlagen
/ˈfoːɐ̯ʃlaːɡən/
Definition
To suggest or propose an idea, plan, or option to someone.
Example
Er hat vorgeschlagen, morgen ins Kino zu gehen.
Show translation
He suggested going to the cinema tomorrow.
Etymology
From *vor-* ("forward, before") + *schlagen* ("to strike, hit"). The sense of "putting an idea forward" evolved from the literal image of striking or placing something in front of another person for consideration, paralleling the English "to put forward."
Cultural note
Germans tend to be direct in making suggestions, so *vorschlagen* is heard frequently in both professional meetings (*Besprechungen*) and casual conversation. Don't confuse it with *empfehlen* ("to recommend"), which carries a stronger sense of personal endorsement based on experience.