propose marriage
/prəˈpoʊz ˈmærɪdʒ/
Meaning
To propose marriage means to formally ask someone to marry you. While native speakers in casual conversation usually say 'propose' or 'pop the question', 'propose marriage' is the official, formal term used in legal, literary, or serious contexts.
Examples
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He chose a beautiful spot overlooking the ocean to propose marriage to his girlfriend.
He chose a beautiful spot overlooking the ocean to propose marriage to his girlfriend.
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In some cultures, it is customary to ask the parents' permission before proposing marriage.
In some cultures, it is customary to ask the parents' permission before proposing marriage.
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She was completely caught off guard when he knelt down to propose marriage.
She was completely caught off guard when he knelt down to propose marriage.
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The prince decided to propose marriage during the royal banquet.
The prince decided to propose marriage during the royal banquet.
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After dating for five years, he felt it was finally the right time to propose marriage.
After dating for five years, he felt it was finally the right time to propose marriage.
Common Mistakes
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✗ He proposed marriage with her at the restaurant.
✓ He proposed marriage to her at the restaurant.
You propose marriage *to* someone, not *with* someone.
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✗ He proposed her marriage yesterday.
✓ He proposed marriage to her yesterday.
The preposition 'to' is required before the person receiving the proposal.
Related Expressions
Practice
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He bought a diamond ring and planned to ___ during their vacation in Paris.
💡 The formal verb phrase for asking someone to marry you.
Show answer
propose marriage
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Did he actually ___ to you, or did you just decide to get married together?
💡 Include the word 'marriage' for the formal register.
Show answer
propose marriage