a proper proposal

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "a proper proposal" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used when referring to a proposal that meets the necessary standards or requirements for a specific context, such as business, academic, or project-related situations. Example: "In order to secure funding for our project, we need to submit a proper proposal outlining our objectives and budget."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Science & Research

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

3 human-written examples

He was dragged on to the stage and persuaded to get on one knee to do a proper proposal.

Independent

"Sadly this proposal quickly began to look more like one designed simply to impress the media rather than a proper proposal.

BBC

Literature from times where the molecular basis of biology or thermodynamics was not understood can only be lucky to make a proper proposal, but is not helpful to be repeated in current literature.

Biology Direct

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

57 human-written examples

It now looks like a proper business proposal, he says, instead of being "more like a BBSRC [Biotechnology and Biological Sciences Research Council] proposal".

Science Magazine

These factors facilitated approval by the math faculty to house the new major in Mathematical Sciences and the process of submitting the proper proposal to college and university committees for the establishment of the new major.

CBE Life Sciences Education

As well as commitments on monetary policy, the IMF also wants Argentina to start talks with its foreign creditors and present proper proposals to deal with the banking system's problems.No Argentine politician, including Mr Duhalde, enjoys trust or approval nowadaysJorge Remes Lenicov, the economy minister, seems committed to taking the necessary measures.

The Economist

Also the respondents agreed that small business support services could improve access to finance and that there are enough number of funding programs and financial schemes to assist SMEs but most of them are not able make proper proposals for funding.

Journal of Innovation and Entrepreneurship

Earlier this summer, two administrative law judges in Austin ruled that the authority's application for the license should be rejected because it failed to include a thorough geological survey of the site or a proper assessment of the proposal's socio-economic impact on Sierra Blanca and surrounding Hudspeth County.

The New York Times

At the liaison select committee last week, the prime minister half-hinted that there might be an opportunity to have a proper vote on the proposals (but only the ones the government tolerates), but no day has been mentioned.

The Guardian - Opinion

They also suggested that the new legislation simply turned Mr. Cuomo's campaign proposal into a proper bill — which the governor has been promising since the day he took office.

The New York Times

In 2006, renewed criticism regarding current Premier Jean Charest's limited use of the apartment led to another proposal for a proper official residence.

Wikipedia

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using the phrase "a proper proposal", ensure that the context clearly defines what constitutes 'proper' in that specific situation. For example, a proper proposal for a grant should include a detailed budget, a clear research plan, and well-defined objectives.

Common error

Avoid assuming that everyone shares the same understanding of what makes "a proper proposal". Always clarify the specific requirements and expectations relevant to your audience.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "a proper proposal" functions as an adjectival phrase modifying the noun "proposal". It indicates that the proposal meets specific standards or requirements. Ludwig confirms this usage.

Expression frequency: Rare

Frequent in

News & Media

33%

Science

33%

Wiki

11%

Less common in

Science & Research

11%

Formal & Business

0%

Academia

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "a proper proposal" is an adjectival phrase used to describe a proposal that meets specific standards or requirements. According to Ludwig, the phrase is grammatically correct and generally employed to indicate adequacy and completeness. While examples are relatively rare, the phrase's usage spans across various contexts including news, science, and business. To ensure clarity, it is advisable to define what constitutes "proper" within the specific context of your proposal, avoiding assumptions about shared understanding. Alternatives such as "a suitable proposition" or "a well-considered suggestion" can be used depending on the context. Thus, using "a proper proposal" effectively requires clarity, context-awareness, and adherence to relevant guidelines.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

a suitable proposition

Replaces 'proposal' with 'proposition', emphasizing the offer or suggestion aspect.

an appropriate plan

Substitutes 'proposal' with 'plan', highlighting the structured and organized aspect of the suggestion.

a well-considered suggestion

Replaces 'proper' with 'well-considered', emphasizing the thoughtfulness behind the proposal.

a fitting submission

Uses 'fitting' instead of 'proper' and replaces 'proposal' with 'submission', focusing on the act of presenting something for consideration.

a correct application

Emphasizes the accuracy and adherence to guidelines in the submission.

a valid request

Highlights the legitimacy and justification of the proposal.

a legitimate recommendation

Focuses on the authenticity and endorsement of the suggested course of action.

a precise formulation

Emphasizes the clarity and exactness of the proposal.

a thorough presentation

Highlights the comprehensive and detailed nature of the proposed idea.

an adequate submission

Indicates that the proposal meets the minimum necessary requirements.

FAQs

What does "a proper proposal" mean in a business context?

In a business context, "a proper proposal" typically includes a clear problem statement, a proposed solution, a detailed implementation plan, a budget, and projected outcomes. It should be tailored to the specific needs and expectations of the client or stakeholder.

How do I ensure my research proposal is "a proper proposal"?

To ensure your research proposal is "a proper proposal", follow guidelines of the institution or funding body. This usually involves a clear research question, a literature review, a detailed methodology, and ethical considerations. Seek feedback from mentors or peers before submission.

What are some alternatives to saying "a proper proposal"?

You can use alternatives like "a suitable proposition", "an appropriate plan", or "a well-considered suggestion", depending on the context.

What makes "a proper proposal" different from just any proposal?

"A proper proposal" implies that the proposal meets certain standards or requirements. While any proposal offers a suggestion, "a proper proposal" suggests thoroughness, adherence to guidelines, and a higher likelihood of acceptance due to its quality and completeness.