put forward

/pʊt ˈfɔːwəd/ · put FOR-wurdproposal phrase

Present an idea, explanation, proposal, or candidate for consideration.

Use put forward to express this relationship precisely: present an idea, explanation, proposal, or candidate for consideration.

What put forward Really Means

The word becomes easier to use when its closely related senses are separated and compared.

1

Core action

Present an idea, explanation, proposal, or candidate for consideration.

Example

The researchers put forward a new hypothesis about migration.

2

Common construction

Use this expression in its normal grammatical frame so the relationship between the surrounding ideas remains explicit.

Example

Several alternative explanations were put forward.

3

Reasoning effect

It tells the reader how to interpret the timing, scope, evidence, contrast, condition, or consequence in the statement.

Example

The committee put forward the proposal for public consultation.

Use put forward Naturally

Notice how the surrounding noun or clause reveals the exact shade of meaning.

The researchers put forward a new hypothesis about migration.

Several alternative explanations were put forward.

The committee put forward the proposal for public consultation.

Precision Matters

Put forward overlaps with several common words, but each carries a different emphasis.

put forward

Means present an idea, explanation, proposal, or candidate for consideration.

vs.
set forth

Means present, state, or explain ideas, rules, or arguments clearly and formally.

put forward

Means present an idea, explanation, proposal, or candidate for consideration.

vs.
make a case for

Means present evidence and reasoning that support a conclusion, interpretation, or proposal.

put forward

Means present an idea, explanation, proposal, or candidate for consideration.

vs.
assert

Means to state or defend a claim confidently and directly.

put forward

Means present an idea, explanation, proposal, or candidate for consideration.

vs.
draw a conclusion

Means reach a reasoned judgment by interpreting evidence or premises.

Test put forward in Context

The authors present a proposed explanation for consideration.

1

The authors ___ a mechanism that could explain the unexpected temperature change.

Prepared byFirst Academy
Editorial responsibilityFirst Academy Academic Team
Updated3 August 2026
Selection and reviewRead our methodology