vorschlagen
/fɔɐ̯ˈʃlaːɡən/
Definition
To suggest or propose an idea, plan, or option to someone.
Example
Sie schlug vor, das Meeting auf Montag zu verschieben.
Show translation
She suggested moving the meeting to Monday.
Etymology
From Middle High German *vürschlagen*, combining the prefix *vor-* ("forward, before") and *schlagen* ("to strike, hit"). The semantic shift from "to strike forward" to "to put something forward (as an idea)" mirrors similar metaphorical developments in English "to put forward" or "to throw out" a suggestion.
Cultural note
Germans tend to value directness in professional communication, so *vorschlagen* is a highly practical verb in workplace settings. Note that it is a separable verb: the prefix *vor-* splits off in main clauses — "Ich schlage vor…" (not "Ich vorschlage"). English speakers often forget this split and produce errors.