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We can propose something to someone. Again, if we propose to someone, we usually give the proposal for marriage. But I am confused when 'propose' is used with an object and a that-clause. In that case, can we use preposition 'to' between the verb 'propose' & the object?

I have found the following sentence :

He proposed me that we should go there.

Can it be written in the following way?

He proposed to me that we should go there.

Is the preposition 'to' optional here?

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"To" is required.
The word "tell" is ditransitive, so you could say
He told me that we should go there.
There, "me" is the indirect object and the clause "that we should go there" is the direct object.

But "propose" isn't ditransitive. In your example, the clause "that we should go there" is the direct object. "Propose" can't take an indirect object, so "to" is required to mark the recipient of the proposal.

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  • Is the verb 'suggest' ditransitive? "He suggested me that we should go there?"
    – Sandip Kumar Mandal
    Commented Dec 16, 2020 at 5:43
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    No, that would have to be "He suggested to me that..."
    – Jack O'Flaherty
    Commented Dec 16, 2020 at 5:45
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    Here is a page that includes a list of some ditransitive verbs, with examples of usage. tinyurl.com/y8hpz695 A google search for "ditransitive" will show other lists as well.
    – Jack O'Flaherty
    Commented Dec 16, 2020 at 5:54
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"He proposed me that we should go there." is correct

To is optional here?

Yes.

He proposed to me

is used for asking marry me

He proposed me

is someone suggesting something

Both statements grammar correct but avoid to for offering

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  • 1
    No: He proposed me is someone putting another person forward as a candidate.
    – Kate Bunting
    Commented Dec 11, 2020 at 9:17

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