a risky proposal

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "a risky proposal" is correct and usable in written English.
You can use it when discussing an idea or plan that involves a significant chance of failure or negative consequences. Example: "The board was hesitant to approve a risky proposal that could jeopardize the company's financial stability."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Formal & Business

Science

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

12 human-written examples

Read "A Risky Proposal," Talbot's story on gay-marriage activism and Perry v. Schwarzenegger.

The New Yorker

Read "A Risky Proposal," Talbot's story on gay-marriage activism and Perry v. Schwarzenegger, from January.

The New Yorker

Brexit has always been a risky proposal, but last night the risks went off the graph.

The Guardian

(Photograph: Adam Bouska) Read "A Risky Proposal," Talbot's story on gay-marriage activism and Perry v. Schwarzenegger.

The New Yorker

Read "A Risky Proposal," Talbot's story on gay-marriage activism and Perry v. Schwarzenegger, in the current issue of the magazine.

The New Yorker

ABC/ESPN offered a risky proposal to share revenue, which guaranteed nothing but might have had considerable upside if advertising sales were stupendous.

The New York Times - Sports

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

48 human-written examples

Before Madeley and Finnigan signed a deal to present a new teatime show on Channel 4 they were approached with a "bloody risky" proposal from Sky One and were discussed at a very senior level in the BBC, the pair reveal in their joint autobiography due out next month, which is being serialised in the Daily Mail.

The Guardian

It was a highly risky proposal.

Forbes

This is a risky proposition.

The New York Times

It was a risky proposition.

Forbes

He quickly rose through the ranks at Disney when then-Chief Executive Michael Eisner agreed to Burke's risky proposal to start a line of Disney stores outside of the company's parks.

Forbes

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "a risky proposal", clearly articulate the potential benefits alongside the risks to provide a balanced perspective.

Common error

Avoid exaggerating the risks associated with "a risky proposal" to the point of deterring potential support. Present a realistic assessment without sensationalizing the negative aspects.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "a risky proposal" functions as a noun phrase, where "risky" acts as a descriptive adjective modifying the noun "proposal". Ludwig examples show this phrase used in various contexts to describe plans or ideas with a significant chance of failure.

Expression frequency: Common

Frequent in

News & Media

43%

Formal & Business

25%

Science

13%

Less common in

Wiki

6%

Encyclopedias

0%

Reference

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "a risky proposal" is a common and grammatically correct phrase used to describe a plan or idea with a high probability of failure. Ludwig AI confirms its usability in various contexts. While suitable for neutral and professional communication, careful attention should be given to presenting both the potential benefits and risks associated with such proposals. Alternative phrases, such as "a hazardous plan" or "a speculative venture", can be used to convey similar meanings with slight variations in emphasis.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

a hazardous plan

Emphasizes the potential for danger or harm inherent in the plan, slightly stronger than 'risky'.

a perilous scheme

Highlights the potential for loss or failure; more dramatic than 'risky'.

a chancy suggestion

Indicates a lower probability of success, focusing on the uncertainty of the suggestion.

a speculative venture

Implies that the proposal is based on conjecture and has an uncertain outcome, typically used in a business context.

an adventurous undertaking

Conveys a sense of excitement and boldness, downplaying the negative aspects of risk.

a daring proposition

Stresses the boldness and courage required, suggesting that the potential reward justifies the risk.

a bold initiative

Focuses on the positive aspect of taking action, even if it involves risk, often used in business or political contexts.

a questionable approach

Highlights doubts about the validity or wisdom of the approach, suggesting a higher level of risk.

a dubious strategy

Emphasizes uncertainty and the potential for failure, implying that the strategy may not be well-considered.

a precarious project

Highlights the instability and vulnerability of the project, implying a high risk of collapse or failure.

FAQs

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

You can use "a risky proposal" to describe a plan or idea that has a high chance of failure or negative consequences. For instance, "The company rejected "a risky proposal" to invest in a new market because of the potential for significant losses."

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

Alternatives include "a hazardous plan", "a perilous scheme", or "a speculative venture". The best choice depends on the specific context and the nuance you want to convey.

Is it better to say "a risky proposal" or "a risky proposition"?

Both "a risky proposal" and "a risky proposition" are grammatically correct and have similar meanings. "Proposal" typically refers to a specific plan or suggestion, while "proposition" can be more general. Choose the one that fits best in your context.

What makes "a risky proposal" different from a standard proposal?

The key difference is the level of risk involved. "A risky proposal" implies that there is a significant chance of failure or negative outcomes, whereas a standard proposal may be more conservative and have a higher likelihood of success.