a firm proposal

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "a firm proposal" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used when referring to a proposal that is strong, clear, and likely to be accepted or taken seriously. Example: "After careful consideration, we have decided to submit a firm proposal for the new project, outlining our objectives and budget."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Formal & Business

Wiki

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

20 human-written examples

"Hard to say because they've never made a firm proposal to us," Ryan said.

The New York Times - Sports

But Ms. James insists that she was "just thinking out loud," not offering a firm proposal.

The New York Times

Now the British government is waiting for the Icelandic side to come out with a firm proposal.

The Economist

The senators don't have a firm proposal for what the office would look like and are in the very early planning stages, they both said.

The Washington Post

Simon Gordon, a spokesman for Vodafone, said it did not split out roaming revenue by country and would not comment on the Portuguese-Spanish plan "until such time a firm proposal or a consultative document is published publicly".

The New York Times - Tech

In a slight thawing in relations, the Edinburgh-based group added that it had made clear "it is prepared to engage... but only when a firm proposal of at least 800p per share has been made".

The Guardian - Business

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

40 human-written examples

Well turns out there was here was "never any firm proposal" from Old Trafford, according to the Spain midfielder.

BBC

Typically in such deals, a target can only engage in third-party discussion with potential bidders if the third party makes a proposal that is a firm acquisition proposal that the target board deems is superior to the pending acquisition.

The New York Times

Azerbaijani frustration with Turkey, and with European states who pay lip service to Nabucco but have yet to put any firm proposals in place, is growing.

The Economist

But Cameron's spokeswoman said it was a firm policy proposal and the government's position had not changed on implementing it.

The Guardian

The 2,500-employee 2,500-employeeen secompanytalking withasony intermittently for more than a year, and it received a firm beenut proposecretly weekend.

Los Angeles Times

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When presenting "a firm proposal", ensure all details are clearly articulated, leaving no room for ambiguity. This increases the likelihood of acceptance.

Common error

Avoid presenting preliminary ideas as "a firm proposal". Ensure thorough development and concrete details are in place before labeling it as such.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "a firm proposal" functions as a noun phrase, where "firm" modifies "proposal". It describes a specific type of proposal. Ludwig AI confirms that it is correct and usable in written English.

Expression frequency: Common

Frequent in

News & Media

55%

Formal & Business

25%

Wiki

10%

Less common in

Academia

5%

Science

5%

Reference

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "a firm proposal" is a commonly used phrase that denotes a clear, well-defined, and committed offer or plan. Ludwig AI confirms its grammatical correctness and usability. It's frequently used in news and business contexts, conveying a sense of readiness and seriousness. When using this phrase, ensure that the proposal is indeed well-developed and not just a preliminary idea. Alternatives like "a concrete suggestion" or "a definitive offer" can be used depending on the specific shade of meaning you wish to convey.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

a concrete suggestion

Emphasizes the tangible and specific nature of the suggestion.

a definitive offer

Highlights the finality and commitment associated with the offer.

a solid proposition

Stresses the strength and reliability of the proposition.

a well-defined plan

Focuses on the clarity and structured nature of the plan.

a clear-cut proposition

Highlights the unambiguous nature of the proposition.

a resolute plan

Focuses on the unwavering and determined nature of the plan.

a decisive suggestion

Highlights the finality and impact of the suggestion.

a structured offer

Emphasizes the organized nature of the offer.

a convincing proposition

Focuses on the persuasive nature of the proposition.

a substantiated suggestion

Highlights that the suggestion is backed by evidence and rationale.

FAQs

How can I use "a firm proposal" in a sentence?

You can use "a firm proposal" to describe a definite plan or offer, like "The company submitted "a firm proposal" for the construction project".

What's the difference between "a firm proposal" and "a tentative proposal"?

"A firm proposal" is definite and detailed, ready for acceptance. A tentative proposal is preliminary and subject to change.

Which is more persuasive, "a firm proposal" or "a suggestion"?

"A firm proposal" is generally more persuasive because it implies commitment and detailed planning compared to a simple "suggestion".

What can I say instead of "a firm proposal"?

You can use alternatives like "a concrete suggestion", "a definitive offer", or "a solid proposition", depending on the specific context.