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Vocabulary
제안하다

B1 verb #2,000 most common 4 min read

제안하다

jeanhada Top 2,000

Practice it Examples Notes & Tips 제안하다 in 30 Seconds

Explanation 제안하다 in your Level:

At the A1 level, you don't need to use '제안하다' often. Instead, you use simple patterns like '-을까요?' (Shall we...?) or '-읍시다' (Let's...). However, it's good to know that '제안' means 'suggestion.' If someone says '제안이 있어요,' they mean 'I have an idea.' You might see it in very basic textbooks when talking about making plans with friends. Focus on the idea of 'making a plan.'

At the A2 level, you begin to see '제안하다' in reading passages about work or school. You should understand that it means 'to suggest.' You can start using it in simple sentences like '친구에게 영화를 보자고 제안했어요' (I suggested to my friend that we watch a movie). It's a step up from just saying 'Let's go' because it describes the act of suggesting. You will also learn the noun form '제안' (suggestion/proposal).

At the B1 level, '제안하다' becomes an essential word. You are expected to use it in writing and speaking to describe collaborative actions. You should be comfortable with the pattern '-자고 제안하다' for indirect suggestions. This level requires you to use the word in semi-formal contexts, such as writing an email to a teacher or discussing a group project. It is also a key word for IELTS or TOPIK preparation when discussing solutions to problems.

At the B2 level, you should use '제안하다' with more complex objects, such as '해결책을 제안하다' (propose a solution) or '정책을 제안하다' (propose a policy). You should also understand the difference between '제안하다' and its synonyms like '건의하다' (to suggest to a superior) or '제시하다' (to present). You will encounter this word frequently in news articles, business reports, and formal debates.

At the C1 level, you use '제안하다' to discuss abstract concepts and high-level strategies. You should be able to use it in the passive voice ('제안되다') and understand its role in formal documentation like '제안서' (RFP - Request for Proposal). You can use it to critique suggestions made by others, using phrases like '제안된 내용이 비현실적이다' (The proposed content is unrealistic). Your usage should reflect a deep understanding of professional etiquette.

At the C2 level, '제안하다' is used with absolute precision. You can distinguish between a '제안' (proposal), '제의' (offer/overture), and '발의' (motion/initiative). You might use it in legal or legislative contexts, such as '법안을 제안하다' (to propose a bill). You are capable of handling the word in any register, from highly academic papers to nuanced diplomatic negotiations, understanding the subtle implications of who is proposing what to whom.

Practice it Examples Notes & Tips

제안하다 in 30 Seconds

제안하다 (Je-an-ha-da) means to suggest or propose an idea, plan, or action for consideration by others.
It is a versatile verb used in daily life, business meetings, and academic writing to initiate collaboration.
Commonly paired with the indirect speech pattern '-자고 제안하다' when suggesting a group action.
Distinguish it from '추천하다' (recommend), which is for items/places, and '건의하다' (suggest to superiors).

At its core, 제안하다 (je-an-ha-da) is about the act of 'putting an idea on the table.' It combines the Hanja characters 提 (제), meaning 'to lift' or 'to bring up,' and 案 (안), meaning 'an idea' or 'a plan.' When you use this word, you aren't just talking; you are offering a specific path forward for others to evaluate. This makes it a crucial verb for collaborative environments, from deciding where to eat with friends to presenting a multi-million dollar business strategy.

Nuance: Unlike '추천하다' (to recommend), which focuses on the quality of a choice, '제안하다' focuses on the initiation of an action or plan.

회의에서 새로운 마케팅 전략을 제안했다.

I proposed a new marketing strategy at the meeting.

In a social context, it functions as a polite way to suggest an activity. In a professional context, it is the standard term for submitting a formal proposal. It implies that the speaker is taking the initiative to solve a problem or improve a situation. This proactive nature is why it is frequently tested in TOPIK II and used extensively in professional Korean communication.

Etymology: Hanja: 提案 (제안). 提 (to bring forward) + 案 (plan/table).

그는 나에게 동업을 제안했다.

He suggested a business partnership to me.

The word is versatile. It can be used with simple nouns (like 'dinner') or complex clauses (like 'that we should change the entire system'). When used with clauses, it often takes the form '-자고 제안하다' (suggesting that we do something) or '-기를 제안하다' (suggesting the act of doing something).

Using 제안하다 correctly involves understanding its grammatical structures. It is a transitive verb, meaning it requires an object—the thing being suggested. The most common structure is [Noun]을/를 제안하다.

Structure 1: [Noun] + 을/를 제안하다 (To suggest [Noun])

친구에게 여행을 제안했어요.

I suggested a trip to my friend.

When you want to suggest an action (a verb), you must nominalize the verb. You can use -는 것을 or -기를. For example, 'suggesting going' becomes '가는 것을 제안하다'.

Structure 2: [Verb] + 자고 제안하다 (To suggest that we [Verb])

선생님께서 같이 점심을 먹자고 제안하셨다.

The teacher suggested that we eat lunch together.

In formal writing, such as a business proposal (제안서), you will often see it used in the passive form 제안되다 (to be proposed). For instance, '이 계획은 작년에 제안되었습니다' (This plan was proposed last year).

해결책을 제안해 주시겠습니까?

Could you please suggest a solution?

You will encounter 제안하다 in various settings, but it is most prominent in professional and academic environments. In a Korean office, '제안' is a daily keyword. Managers ask for '아이디어 제안' (idea suggestions), and companies submit '제안서' (proposals) to win contracts.

Business Context: Used when presenting new projects, contract terms, or improvements to workflow.

상대측에서 새로운 계약 조건을 제안해 왔습니다.

The other party has proposed new contract terms.

In news broadcasts and documentaries, you'll hear it when experts suggest policies to the government. For example, '전문가들은 탄소 배출을 줄이기 위한 새로운 정책을 제안했습니다' (Experts suggested a new policy to reduce carbon emissions).

In daily life, it is used when making plans that require a bit more 'weight' than just a casual 'let's go.' If you are suggesting a specific plan for a weekend getaway or a way to split chores, 제안하다 fits perfectly. It adds a layer of 'I've thought about this' to your suggestion.

제가 한 가지 방법을 제안해도 될까요?

May I suggest one method?

One of the most frequent mistakes is confusing 제안하다 with 추천하다 (to recommend). While they are related, they are not interchangeable. 제안하다 is about a plan or action, while 추천하다 is about a person, place, or thing that you think is good.

Mistake 1: Using '제안하다' for movies or restaurants. (Incorrect: 이 영화를 제안해요. Correct: 이 영화를 추천해요.)

맛있는 식당을 추천해 주세요. (NOT 제안해 주세요)

Please recommend a good restaurant.

Another mistake is the particle usage. Since it's a transitive verb, you must use the object particle -을/를. Learners often forget this or use the subject particle -이/가 incorrectly.

Mistake 2: Confusing '제안' (proposal) with '제한' (limitation). They sound similar but have opposite meanings.

Understanding the synonyms of 제안하다 helps you choose the right word for the right level of formality and context. Here are the most common comparisons:

건의하다 (Geon-ui-hada): To suggest to a superior or an organization. It has a nuance of 'making a formal request for improvement.'

직원들은 복지 향상을 회사에 건의했다.

Employees suggested (petitioned) the company for better welfare.

권하다 (Gwon-hada): To advise or encourage someone to do something. It's softer and more personal than 제안하다.

의사는 나에게 운동을 권했다.

The doctor advised (encouraged) me to exercise.

제시하다 (Je-si-hada): To present or show. Used when providing evidence, options, or a clear plan for viewing.

How Formal Is It?

Difficulty Rating

Grammar to Know

Indirect Speech (-자고 하다)

Nominalization (-기, -는 것)

Purpose clauses (-기 위해)

Honorifics (-시-)

Causative/Passive forms

Examples by Level

친구가 점심을 제안했어요.

My friend suggested lunch.

Noun + 을/를 제안하다

좋은 제안이에요.

That's a good suggestion.

Noun + 이에요 (to be)

커피 한 잔을 제안해요.

I suggest a cup of coffee.

Simple present tense.

누가 제안했어요?

Who suggested it?

Question form.

산책을 제안합니다.

I suggest a walk.

Formal ending -습니다.

제안이 많아요.

There are many suggestions.

Noun + 이/가 많다.

게임을 제안할게요.

I will suggest a game.

Future tense -(으)ㄹ게요.

이것을 제안해요.

I suggest this.

Demonstrative pronoun.

우리 같이 공부하자고 제안했어요.

I suggested that we study together.

-자고 제안하다 (Indirect suggestion)

그는 새로운 게임을 제안했다.

He suggested a new game.

Past tense -았다/었다.

선생님께 질문을 제안해도 될까요?

May I suggest a question to the teacher?

-아/어도 되다 (Permission)

회의 시간을 제안해 주세요.

Please suggest a meeting time.

-아/어 주세요 (Request)

그녀는 여행지를 제안하고 싶어 해요.

She wants to suggest a travel destination.

-고 싶어 하다 (Third person desire)

우리는 저녁 메뉴를 제안했습니다.

We suggested the dinner menu.

Formal past tense.

내일 만나는 것을 제안해요.

I suggest meeting tomorrow.

-는 것 (Nominalization)

아이디어를 제안하는 것이 중요해요.

Suggesting ideas is important.

-는 것이 중요하다.

환경을 보호하기 위한 방법을 제안합니다.

I suggest a way to protect the environment.

-기 위한 (For the purpose of)

팀장은 프로젝트 마감일을 연장하자고 제안했다.

The team leader suggested extending the project deadline.

-자고 제안하다 (Propositive indirect speech)

효율적인 업무 방식을 제안해 보십시오.

Please try suggesting an efficient work method.

-아/어 보다 (Try doing)

그들은 새로운 마케팅 전략을 제안하기로 했다.

They decided to propose a new marketing strategy.

-기로 하다 (Decide to)

문제를 해결할 수 있는 아이디어를 제안해 주세요.

Please suggest ideas that can solve the problem.

-(으)ㄹ 수 있는 (Noun modifying clause)

제가 제안한 계획이 마음에 드십니까?

Do you like the plan I suggested?

-ㄴ (Past noun modifier)

그녀는 예산을 줄이자고 제안했습니다.

She suggested that we reduce the budget.

-자고 (Indirect speech)

더 나은 대안을 제안할 수 있습니다.

I can suggest a better alternative.

-(으)ㄹ 수 있다 (Possibility)

정부는 청년 실업을 해결하기 위한 정책을 제안했다.

The government proposed a policy to solve youth unemployment.

Formal usage in social context.

그 회사는 우리에게 파격적인 조건을 제안해 왔다.

That company has come to us with an exceptional offer.

-아/어 오다 (Action continuing to present)

전문가들은 교육 시스템의 개혁을 제안하고 있다.

Experts are proposing a reform of the education system.

-고 있다 (Progressive)

이 보고서는 새로운 에너지원을 개발할 것을 제안한다.

This report suggests developing new energy sources.

-(으)ㄹ 것을 제안하다 (Formal suggestion)

상대방의 의견을 존중하면서 자신의 생각을 제안해야 한다.

You should suggest your thoughts while respecting the other person's opinion.

-(으)면서 (While doing)

그는 회의에서 매우 창의적인 해결책을 제안했다.

He proposed a very creative solution at the meeting.

Adverbial modification.

우리는 비용 절감을 위해 재택근무를 제안하기로 했다.

We decided to suggest working from home to reduce costs.

-기 위해 (In order to)

제안된 안건에 대해 찬반 투표를 실시하겠습니다.

We will conduct a vote for and against the proposed agenda.

Passive modifier (제안된).

학계에서는 이 현상을 설명하기 위한 새로운 가설을 제안했다.

Academia has proposed a new hypothesis to explain this phenomenon.

Academic register.

시민 단체는 조세 제도의 형평성을 높이는 방안을 제안했다.

Civil society groups proposed measures to increase the fairness of the tax system.

Complex noun phrases.

그 논문은 기존 이론의 한계를 극복할 수 있는 모델을 제안한다.

The paper proposes a model that can overcome the limitations of existing theories.

Abstract academic usage.

협상 과정에서 양측은 서로 수용 가능한 타협안을 제안했다.

During the negotiation process, both sides proposed mutually acceptable compromises.

Negotiation vocabulary.

그는 조직의 구조적 모순을 해결하기 위해 근본적인 개혁을 제안했다.

He proposed fundamental reforms to solve the structural contradictions of the organization.

High-level vocabulary (모순, 근본적).

기술적 결함을 보완할 수 있는 설계를 제안하는 바입니다.

I am proposing a design that can compensate for technical flaws.

-는 바입니다 (Formal epistolary style).

위원장은 다음 회의에서 구체적인 실행 계획을 제안할 것을 촉구했다.

The chairman urged that a concrete action plan be proposed at the next meeting.

Reporting verbs (촉구했다).

이 프로젝트는 지역 사회의 발전을 도모하고자 제안되었습니다.

This project was proposed to promote the development of the local community.

Passive voice + -고자 (Intention).

본 연구는 다차원적 분석을 통해 새로운 거버넌스 모델을 제안하고자 한다.

This study intends to propose a new governance model through multidimensional analysis.

Highest academic register.

그 외교관은 분쟁 지역의 평화 정착을 위한 포괄적인 로드맵을 제안했다.

The diplomat proposed a comprehensive roadmap for establishing peace in the conflict zone.

Diplomatic terminology.

저자는 자본주의의 병폐를 치유할 수 있는 대안적 경제 체제를 제안한다.

The author proposes an alternative economic system that can cure the ills of capitalism.

Philosophical/Economic discourse.

이사회는 주주 가치 제고를 위해 배당 확대를 제안하기로 결의했다.

The board of directors resolved to propose an increase in dividends to enhance shareholder value.

Corporate legal terminology.

그 법안은 인권 보호의 사각지대를 해소하기 위해 제안된 혁신적인 조치이다.

The bill is an innovative measure proposed to eliminate blind spots in human rights protection.

Legislative context.

철학자는 인간 소외 문제를 해결하기 위한 실존적 결단을 제안한다.

The philosopher proposes an existential decision to solve the problem of human alienation.

Philosophical register.

환경 단체는 생태계 복원을 위한 범국가적인 연대를 제안했다.

Environmental groups proposed a pan-national solidarity for ecosystem restoration.

Advanced sociopolitical terms.

그는 도시 재생 사업의 일환으로 문화 예술 지구 조성을 제안했다.

He proposed the creation of a cultural arts district as part of the urban regeneration project.

Urban planning terminology.

Synonyms

제시하다 건의하다 추천하다 발의하다

Antonyms

거절하다 반대하다

Common Collocations

아이디어를 제안하다 (To suggest an idea)

계획을 제안하다 (To propose a plan)

해결책을 제안하다 (To propose a solution)

조건을 제안하다 (To propose terms/conditions)

방법을 제안하다 (To suggest a method)

안건을 제안하다 (To propose an agenda item)

수정을 제안하다 (To suggest a revision)

동업을 제안하다 (To propose a business partnership)

데이트를 제안하다 (To suggest a date)

정책을 제안하다 (To propose a policy)

Common Phrases

제안을 받다 (To receive a proposal)

제안을 수락하다 (To accept a proposal)

제안을 거절하다 (To reject a proposal)

제안을 검토하다 (To review a proposal)

제안서 (Proposal document)

제안자 (Proposer)

한 가지 제안 (One suggestion)

파격적인 제안 (A shocking/exceptional proposal)

공식적인 제안 (A formal proposal)

제안이 들어오다 (A proposal comes in)

Often Confused With

제안하다 vs 추천하다 (Recommend)

제안하다 vs 제시하다 (Present/Show)

제안하다 vs 제한하다 (Limit - sounds similar)

Idioms & Expressions

"말을 꺼내다 (To bring up a topic/suggestion)"

"운을 떼다 (To start speaking/suggesting)"

"다리를 놓다 (To act as a bridge/propose a connection)"

"멍석을 깔아주다 (To create an opportunity for someone to suggest something)"

"입을 열다 (To open one's mouth/start suggesting)"

"머리를 맞대다 (To put heads together/suggest ideas collectively)"

"물꼬를 트다 (To break the ice/start the flow of suggestions)"

"화두를 던지다 (To throw out a topic for discussion/suggestion)"

"손을 내밀다 (To reach out/propose cooperation)"

"판을 짜다 (To set the stage/propose a framework)"

Easily Confused

제안하다 vs

Sentence Patterns

How to Use It

nuance

제안하다 implies a level of formality or structured thought compared to just '말하다'.

formality

It is suitable for both spoken and written Korean, but leans slightly formal.

Common Mistakes

Using 제안하다 instead of 추천하다 for movies/books.
Forgetting the object particle -을/를.
Confusing 제안 (proposal) with 제한 (limit).
Using 제안하다 when you should use 건의하다 to a boss.
Misspelling it as 재안하다.

Tips

Indirect Speech

Remember to use the '-자고' pattern when suggesting a mutual action. It's the most natural way to use this verb in conversation.

Synonym Choice

Use '추천하다' for things you like, and '제안하다' for plans you want to execute.

Business Korean

In a Korean company, always have a '제안' ready. It shows you are an active and valuable employee.

Softening Suggestions

Start with '혹시...' (By any chance...) or '제 생각에는...' to make your 제안 sound less demanding.

Proposal Structure

A good 제안서 usually includes the 배경 (background), 목적 (purpose), and 기대 효과 (expected effects).

News Keywords

When you hear '제안', pay attention to the words immediately before it; that's the core of the new idea being discussed.

Respecting Hierarchy

If your 제안 is rejected by a superior, accept it gracefully. You can '재제안' (re-propose) later with more data.

Visual Link

Imagine a 'Jan' (제안) bringing a 'Plan' to a 'Man'.

TOPIK Tip

This is a high-frequency word in TOPIK II Listening and Reading. Make sure you know its noun form '제안' as well.

Making Plans

Use it when you want to sound like you've put thought into a weekend plan with your partner or friends.

Memorize It

Word Origin

Cultural Context

Suggestions are often prefaced with '제 생각에는...' (In my opinion...) to maintain Kibun (face/mood).

When submitting a 제안서 (proposal), the language must be extremely formal (Hap-sho-che).

Practice in Real Life

Real-World Contexts

Conversation Starters

"새로운 프로젝트에 대해 제안할 것이 있나요?"

"저녁 메뉴로 무엇을 제안하시겠어요?"

"우리 같이 운동하자고 제안하면 어떨까요?"

"회사에 건의하고 싶은 제안이 있어요?"

"가장 좋은 해결책을 제안해 주세요."

Journal Prompts

오늘 친구나 동료에게 제안한 것이 있나요? 무엇이었나요?

내가 만약 사장이라면 회사에 어떤 변화를 제안하고 싶나요?

최근에 들은 제안 중 가장 흥미로웠던 것은 무엇인가요?

제안을 거절당했을 때의 기분과 대처 방법을 써 보세요.

더 나은 세상을 만들기 위해 정부에 제안하고 싶은 정책은?

Frequently Asked Questions

10 questions

Yes, but only if you are suggesting the *action* of eating or a specific *plan* for a meal. If you are just saying a restaurant is good, use '추천하다'.

제안 is a proposal or plan. 제의 is an offer or overture, often used in diplomacy or formal business deals (e.g., a peace offer).

It is neutral to formal. You can use it with friends, but it's very common in professional settings.

You can say '공부하기를 제안해요' or '공부하라고 제안해요' (though '권해요' is more natural for advice).

It is a written proposal document, like a business pitch or a project plan.

Yes, but '건의하다' is often more polite when you are asking for a change or improvement from a lower position.

There isn't one direct opposite verb, but '거절하다' (to reject) is the opposite action taken by the receiver.

Both are correct. 제안하다 is the verb form, and 제안을 하다 is the noun + 'do' verb form.

Use it when suggesting solutions to social problems in Task 54. For example, '정부는 이 문제를 해결하기 위해 새로운 법안을 제안해야 한다'.

Yes, as a transitive verb, it needs to specify what is being proposed.