vorschlagen
/ˈfoːɐ̯ʃlaːɡn̩/
Definition
To suggest or propose an idea, plan, or option to someone.
Example
Sie schlägt vor, morgen früh zusammen zu frühstücken.
Show translation
She suggests having breakfast together tomorrow morning.
Etymology
Compound of *vor-* ("forward, before") + *schlagen* ("to hit, strike"), with the sense of "putting something forward" — placing an idea in front of others for consideration. Attested in Early New High German with the meaning of proposing or recommending.
Cultural note
In German professional and academic culture, *vorschlagen* is the standard, neutral verb for making proposals in meetings, emails, or discussions. It is notably more direct than English "I was thinking maybe…" — Germans often use it without hedging, which can sound blunt to English speakers but is perfectly polite in context.