Words / B2

pr-uh-POHZL/prəˈpəʊzl/

A proposal is a formal suggested plan: a proposal for, reject a proposal, a research proposal. Suggestion is everyday and lighter; bid is competitive (a bid for a contract); proposal is also a marriage offer. Propose is the verb (already in the dictionary). In speech, a formal plan is enough. Do not call a passing idea in the kitchen a proposal in a report, and a research proposal has a set academic shape (aims, methods, timeline).

Meaning

A formal plan or suggestion, often written.

Examples

• “The council rejected the proposal for a new car park.”
• “The council rejected the proposal for a 24-hour licence.”
• “Her PhD proposal was sent back for a clearer method, which is the academic sense.”

Good to know

a proposal for; reject / submit a proposal. Everyday: suggestion. Competitive: bid. Verb: propose. Also marriage. Academic: research proposal.

Near in meaning

suggestion

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