Proposal: meaning, definitions and examples

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.