1 B2 formal
To put a question, proposal, or challenge directly to someone, especially in a formal or confrontational way.
"I put it to you that you were not at home on the night in question."
inseparable
put it to
B2 formal inseparable transitive
To propose something directly to someone, or to challenge them with a statement or question.
In plain English
To say something directly to someone, especially to challenge them or ask them to think about it seriously.
What does "put it to" mean?
2 meanings, ordered from most common to least. Color-coded by CEFR level.
2 B2 neutral
To submit an idea or decision to a group for their consideration or vote.
"We'll put it to the board and see what they decide."
inseparable
Usage tip
Common in legal, journalistic, and formal debate contexts. A lawyer might 'put it to' a witness that they are lying. Also used in parliamentary contexts. The phrase 'I put it to you that...' is a classic formal formula.
Words that pair with "put it to"
Natural word combinations native speakers use most often.
you the witness the committee the audience the jury parliament
How to conjugate "put it to"
The five tense forms you'll use most often.
Base
put it to
I/you/we/they
3rd person
puts it to
he/she/it
Past simple
put it to
yesterday
Past participle
put it to
have + pp
-ing form
putting it to
continuous
Hear "put it to" in the wild
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Other ways to say "put it to"
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