a shaky proposition

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "a shaky proposition" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used to describe an idea or suggestion that is uncertain, unreliable, or not well-founded. Example: "Investing in that startup seems like a shaky proposition given their lack of a solid business plan."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Formal & Business

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

7 human-written examples

This is always a shaky proposition in fiction reading, but when the protagonist is a mentally unstable serial kidnapper, it becomes a little bizarre.

The New York Times - Books

David Schwimmer's Robert Kardashian, a shaky proposition early on, continues his development into a sad-sack proxy for the audience, fazed into silence, and then exhausted retreat, by the absurdity of the outcome.

The New Yorker

They signed him to a six-year, $61 million contract extension before the season that seemed a bit of a shaky proposition considering he had just ignored their pleas -- and phone calls -- during his training camp disappearance.

The New York Times - Sports

To use this list as a gauge of any sort is a shaky proposition.

Los Angeles Times

But going to five to 10 doctors' appointments a week eats into his schedule, and his cognitive struggles make any kind of investing a shaky proposition.

Los Angeles Times

"It's going to take some time for the communities to gain the trust of each other and to create cross-sectarian alliances". Though Iraqis often speak lovingly of golden ages when they were one big happy family, Iraq has been a shaky proposition since its 1920s founding.

Los Angeles Times

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

53 human-written examples

Lingering on a floated B-flat was a shakier proposition.

The New York Times - Arts

But it's a risky strategy both politically and from a national security perspective — and one that rests on the shaky proposition that the warm feelings expressed by Trump and Kim, as well as the lack of provocative actions by North Korea, can last much longer even if negotiations fail to deliver more than the broad outlines of the agreement reached in Singapore.

The Washington Post

Lustgarten's play depends upon two rather shaky propositions.

The Guardian

The last strategy—hoping that people who become one-time customers via Groupon will become regulars is the shakiest proposition.

Harvard Business Review

Now Kohli will lead and also anchor a line-up boasting undeniable talent, but who on foreign soil remain as shaky a proposition as ever.

The Guardian - Sport

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "a shaky proposition", ensure the context clearly indicates what aspect is unreliable or uncertain. Be specific about the potential risks or weaknesses.

Common error

While acceptable, consider stronger, more precise terms like "untenable", "unsustainable", or "high-risk" in formal contexts to enhance clarity and impact.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "a shaky proposition" functions as a subject complement or adjectival modifier within a sentence. It describes the nature of a noun or idea, indicating its lack of stability or reliability. Ludwig AI confirms its usability in written English.

Expression frequency: Uncommon

Frequent in

News & Media

66%

Science

17%

Formal & Business

17%

Less common in

Wiki

0%

Encyclopedias

0%

Academia

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The phrase "a shaky proposition" is a useful idiom for expressing that something is unreliable or uncertain. As Ludwig AI indicates, it is grammatically correct and usable in written English. While it appears most frequently in News & Media, it can also be found in Science and Formal & Business contexts. When using the phrase, it's important to ensure the context clearly identifies the specific risks or weaknesses involved. If a more formal tone is needed, consider alternatives like "a dubious undertaking" or "a risky venture". Overall, "a shaky proposition" provides a concise way to convey skepticism about the stability or likelihood of success of a plan, idea, or venture.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

a dubious undertaking

Emphasizes the doubtful nature of the endeavor.

a risky venture

Highlights the element of potential loss or danger.

an uncertain prospect

Focuses on the unpredictable outcome or future.

a precarious situation

Indicates instability and vulnerability.

a flimsy argument

Draws attention to the weakness and lack of support for a claim.

a questionable premise

Points out the doubtfulness of the initial assumption.

a challengeable theory

Emphasizes that an idea can be disputed.

an unsubstantiated claim

Indicates a lack of proof or evidence.

a weak foundation

Highlights the lack of a strong base or support.

a tenuous connection

Indicates a fragile or weak link between things.

FAQs

How can I use "a shaky proposition" in a sentence?

Use "a shaky proposition" to describe an idea, plan, or statement that seems unreliable or uncertain. For example, "Investing in that company seems like "a shaky proposition" given their inconsistent financial performance."

What are some alternatives to "a shaky proposition"?

Alternatives include "a risky venture", "a dubious undertaking", or "an uncertain prospect", depending on the specific nuance you want to convey.

When is it appropriate to use the phrase "a shaky proposition"?

It's appropriate when you want to express that something is not well-founded, has a high chance of failure, or lacks a solid basis. It is often used in discussions about investments, plans, or arguments.

Is "a shaky proposition" formal or informal?

The phrase "a shaky proposition" is generally considered neutral in tone and can be used in both formal and informal contexts, although more formal alternatives may be preferred in certain professional settings.