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put forth

C1 formal separable transitive
In simple words

To suggest or offer an idea for people to think about, or (for a plant) to produce new leaves or shoots.

Literal meaning: To extend something outward, to send something forward.

Meanings

1 C1 formal

To propose or offer an idea, theory, or argument for consideration.

"The researcher put forth a compelling theory linking sleep deprivation to memory loss."

Grammar: separable
2 C1 idiomatic formal

To make a great effort; to exert energy or strength.

"You'll need to put forth your best effort if you want to pass this examination."

Grammar: separable
3 C1 formal

(of a plant) To produce new buds, shoots, or leaves.

"In early spring, the rosebush put forth its first delicate shoots."

Grammar: inseparable
Usage notes

Primarily used in formal written English — academic papers, speeches, and legal texts. In everyday conversation, 'put forward' is preferred. The botanical sense (plants putting forth shoots) is literary.

Commonly used with

proposal argument theory effort plan shoots

Forms

Base
put forth
I/you/we/they
3rd person
puts forth
he/she/it
Past simple
put forth
yesterday
Past participle
put forth
have + pp
-ing form
putting forth
continuous

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