a preliminary proposal

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "a preliminary proposal" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used when introducing an initial suggestion or plan that is subject to further discussion or revision. Example: "We have prepared a preliminary proposal for the new project, which we will discuss in our upcoming meeting."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Formal & Business

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

30 human-written examples

A preliminary proposal to the Pensions Regulator was then withdrawn.

The Guardian - Business

Within two weeks, SPX, a competitor of Gardner's, submitted a preliminary proposal to acquire the company.

The New York Times

In December, Mr. Cross released a preliminary proposal that showed the Javits connected to a new stadium.

The New York Times

The company said it had received a "preliminary proposal" from Liberty Global, but considered the offer "inadequate".

The New York Times

A KBR lawyer said that the government's theory "was novel and unfairly tried to criminalize what was only a preliminary proposal".

The New York Times

Chelsea have indicated they will take their time before formalising any offer but the lack of a preliminary proposal has left the left-back fearing the worst.

The Guardian - Sport

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

28 human-written examples

On Friday, Expro shares rose 36percenttoto close at 1,259 pence after market speculation forced it to issue a statement saying it had received a "very preliminary proposal which may or may not lead to an offer".

The New York Times

Senate Democrats are circulating an ambitious preliminary proposal that would raise fuel economy standards by about 50percentt by 2013, but many legislators and lobbyists wonder whether this latest plan has any better chance of success than previous Democratic plans, considering the Republican House and White House.

The New York Times

Mr. Kayser faxed a three-page preliminary proposal to dozens of book editors in the city.

The New York Times

The five-member Federal Communications Commission unanimously approved a sweeping, though preliminary, proposal to reclaim public airwaves now used for broadcast television and auction them off for use in wireless broadband networks, with a portion of the proceeds paid to the broadcasters.

The New York Times - Tech

Scientists are encouraged to contact the appropriate program manager (listed on the Web site) for more detailed information about AFOSR's particular interests; sometimes researchers will be asked to submit a short preliminary proposal--which, incidentally, is always an option with AFOSR.

Science Magazine

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "a preliminary proposal" to initiate discussions and gather feedback before investing significant resources in developing a full-fledged plan.

Common error

Avoid treating "a preliminary proposal" as if it's a final decision. Ensure stakeholders understand it's open for discussion and modification to prevent misunderstandings and resistance.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "a preliminary proposal" functions as a noun phrase that identifies an early-stage version of a plan or suggestion. As demonstrated in the Ludwig examples, it serves to introduce a concept that is not yet finalized and is subject to further revision.

Expression frequency: Common

Frequent in

News & Media

40%

Science

30%

Formal & Business

20%

Less common in

Academia

5%

Encyclopedias

3%

Reference

2%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "a preliminary proposal" is a common and grammatically correct phrase used to introduce initial plans or suggestions. As Ludwig AI shows, its applications span across news, science, and business contexts. Its key function is to present an idea that is still under development and open for discussion. To use it effectively, remember to emphasize its non-final nature and encourage feedback. Alternatives such as "an initial suggestion" or "a draft proposition" can be used depending on the nuance you want to convey. The frequency and the authoritative sources where it appears, guarantee that this is a good and valid form for your sentences.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

an initial suggestion

Focuses more on the aspect of suggesting an idea rather than presenting a formal plan.

a tentative plan

Emphasizes the uncertain and experimental nature of the plan.

a draft proposition

Highlights the unfinished and evolving state of the proposition.

a working hypothesis

Implies a plan or idea being tested and refined.

a rough outline

Suggests a very high-level and incomplete plan.

a speculative offer

Highlights the uncertain nature and potential risk associated with the offer.

an exploratory scheme

Focuses on the investigative and developmental aspect of the plan.

a provisional arrangement

Emphasizes the temporary and conditional nature of the agreement.

a trial balloon

Indicates an idea floated to gauge public reaction before committing to it.

an undeveloped concept

Stresses the lack of detail and refinement in the idea.

FAQs

How is "a preliminary proposal" typically used in a sentence?

Use "a preliminary proposal" to introduce an initial plan or suggestion that is subject to change. For example, "We submitted "a preliminary proposal" outlining our project goals."

What are some alternatives to "a preliminary proposal"?

You can use phrases like "an initial suggestion", "a tentative plan", or "a draft proposition" depending on the context.

When is it appropriate to use "a preliminary proposal"?

It's appropriate when presenting an early-stage plan or idea that needs further development and approval. It signals that the details are not yet finalized.

What distinguishes "a preliminary proposal" from a final proposal?

"A preliminary proposal" is an initial outline with key ideas, while a final proposal is a fully developed document with detailed plans, timelines, and budgets.