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put forward

B1 formal separable transitive
In simple words

To offer an idea, suggestion, or person for others to think about and decide on

Literal meaning: To place something in a forward position — presenting it ahead of others for attention

Meanings

1 B1 formal

To suggest or present an idea, plan, or argument for others to discuss or consider

"The research team put forward a new theory about the cause of the disease."

Grammar: separable
2 B1 formal

To nominate or recommend a person for a position, role, or award

"She was put forward as a candidate for the position of department head."

Grammar: separable
3 B1 neutral

To move clocks to a later time, as in daylight saving time (British English)

"Remember to put your clocks forward one hour this Sunday — the time changes tonight."

Grammar: separable
Usage notes

More formal than 'suggest'. Common in meetings, debates, academic writing, and politics. Can also refer to moving clocks forward (putting clocks forward in daylight saving time). The object can be placed between 'put' and 'forward' or after 'forward'.

Commonly used with

idea proposal theory candidate plan argument motion

Forms

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

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Synonyms

propose suggest nominate recommend advance table

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