Proposal Meaning: Definition, Examples, and Translations

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proposal

[prəˈpəʊzəl ]

Definitions

Context #1 | Noun

business

a formal suggestion or plan put forward for consideration by others

Synonyms

plan, recommendation, suggestion.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

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Word Description / Examples
proposal

Used when formally offering a plan or idea, often in a business, academic, or official setting.

  • We reviewed the proposal for the new marketing strategy in the meeting.
  • She submitted her research proposal to the committee for approval.
suggestion

Implying a casual or informal idea for consideration, often used in everyday interactions.

  • Do you have any suggestions for a good restaurant around here?
  • I appreciate your suggestion on how to improve the report.
plan

Refers to a detailed scheme or method for achieving an objective, often used in both personal and professional contexts.

  • Our team has a plan to increase sales by 20% this year.
  • I have a plan for the weekend that includes hiking and a picnic.
recommendation

Usually involves suggesting a course of action based on expertise or experience; often used in professional, academic, or advisory contexts.

  • Her recommendation helped us choose the best software for our needs.
  • The doctor made a recommendation to start a new treatment.

Examples of usage

  • The board will vote on the proposal next week.
  • She submitted a proposal for a new marketing strategy.
Context #2 | Noun

romantic relationship

an offer of marriage

Synonyms

engagement offer, marriage proposal.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

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Word Description / Examples
proposal

This is a general term used in various contexts, such as business, project planning, or making a suggestion. It is not specifically tied to romantic relationships.

  • She gave a proposal for the new marketing strategy.
  • The company's proposal to merge with another was accepted.
marriage proposal

This is used specifically when someone is asking another person to marry them. It is a term with a romantic and formal connotation.

  • He planned an elaborate marriage proposal at the beach.
  • Her marriage proposal was both surprising and heartfelt.
engagement offer

This phrase usually indicates a formal or traditional context where someone offers a long-term commitment, often relating to work or a collaborative project. It is less commonly used than other terms.

  • The director made an engagement offer to the new candidate.
  • An engagement offer was sent to the consultant for a year-long project.

Examples of usage

  • He got down on one knee and made a proposal.
  • She said yes to his proposal.
Context #3 | Noun

government

a formal suggestion or recommendation made by a government or other body

Synonyms

motion, recommendation, suggestion.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

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Word Description / Examples
proposal

Used commonly in formal and business settings when offering a detailed plan or idea that needs approval.

  • The board will review the proposal during the next meeting.
  • She submitted a proposal for a new project.
recommendation

Used when giving advice or suggesting a course of action, typically based on expertise or experience.

  • The committee made a recommendation to hire the new candidate.
  • My doctor gave me a recommendation to change my diet.
suggestion

Used in everyday situations to offer an idea or plan for consideration, without implying formality or requirement.

  • Can I make a suggestion for our next vacation?
  • She offered a suggestion to improve the workflow.
motion

Often used in official or legislative contexts when a formal suggestion or plan is being put forward for discussion or vote.

  • The senator introduced a motion to amend the bill.
  • The motion to extend the deadline was unanimously approved.

Examples of usage

  • The proposal to increase taxes was met with opposition.
  • The committee reviewed the proposal before making a decision.

Translations

To see the translation, please select a language from the options available.

Interesting Facts

Cultural Significance

  • In many cultures, proposals are often public displays of affection, reflecting the importance of commitment.
  • Surprising proposals with creative elements, like flash mobs or scavenger hunts, have become popular on social media.
  • In the business world, proposals can significantly impact decisions, influencing investments and partnerships.

Legal Context

  • In legal terms, a proposal can serve as a preliminary agreement, initiating negotiations for contracts.
  • Proposals for changes in laws often go through public consultations before being adopted.
  • Understanding how to write a strong proposal is important in fields like law, business, and social work.

Psychology

  • The way a proposal is presented can influence how it is perceived; clarity and enthusiasm are key factors.
  • Research shows that the emotional context of a proposal impacts its acceptance rate.
  • Framing a proposal positively can significantly increase the likelihood of approval.

Arts and Literature

  • Proposals are often depicted in literature and films as pivotal moments in character development.
  • In Shakespeare's plays, proposals can lead to dramatic turns and conflicts, highlighting the tension in relationships.
  • Many romantic comedies center around creative and often humorous proposals, emphasizing their cultural relevance.

Origin of 'proposal'

Main points about word origin

  • The word 'proposal' comes from the Latin word 'proposita', meaning 'something put forth'.
  • It has been used in English since the 15th century, originally referring to plans or suggestions.
  • The prefix 'pro-' indicates 'for' or 'in favor of', while 'posal' relates to placing or putting.

The word 'proposal' originated from the Latin word 'propositio', meaning 'a statement or proposal'. Over time, it evolved to refer to a formal suggestion or plan put forward for consideration. The concept of proposing marriage dates back centuries, with different cultural customs and traditions. In government settings, proposals are essential for decision-making processes and policy changes.


See also: proponent, proposals, proposer, proposition.

Word Frequency Rank

This word ranks #1,820, placing it within important intermediate vocabulary. Learning it will significantly improve your ability to express yourself in English.