Suggerire vs. proporre

The Italian words 'suggerire' and 'proporre' both relate to offering ideas or plans, but they have subtle differences in usage and connotation.

Suggerire

'Suggerire' means to suggest or recommend in a gentle, often informal way. It implies offering an idea without insisting on it.
Ti suggerisco di provare questo ristorante.
(I suggest you try this restaurant.)
Puoi suggerirmi un buon libro da leggere?
(Can you suggest a good book for me to read?)
Il medico mi ha suggerito di fare più esercizio.
(The doctor suggested I do more exercise.)

Proporre

'Proporre' means to propose or put forward a plan or idea in a more formal or official manner. It often implies a more concrete or structured suggestion.
Il comitato ha proposto di cambiare le regole.
(The committee proposed changing the rules.)
Vorrei proporre un brindisi agli sposi.
(I would like to propose a toast to the newlyweds.)
L'azienda ha proposto un nuovo contratto ai dipendenti.
(The company proposed a new contract to the employees.)

Summary

While 'suggerire' is used for informal, gentle suggestions or recommendations, 'proporre' is typically used in more formal contexts for structured proposals or plans. 'Suggerire' is softer and less committal, while 'proporre' often implies a more official or concrete suggestion.