a specific proposal

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "a specific proposal" is correct and usable in written English.
You can use it when referring to a particular suggestion or plan that is detailed and clearly defined. Example: "The committee reviewed a specific proposal for the new community center that included funding sources and design plans."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Academia

Science

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

Does she have a specific proposal?

The Guardian

Later in the day, he offered a specific proposal to ensure that.

The New York Times

"We will make our deliberations once we have had a specific proposal from the American administration".

The New York Times

The Interior Department approved a specific proposal at the Monticello Raceway.

The New York Times

But he criticized the president for not offering a specific proposal to resolve the impasse.

The New York Times

They must offer a specific proposal on how their talents can be profitably utilized by the particular company.

The New York Times

For the first time, too, Mr. Clinton endorsed a specific proposal to raise the $5.15-an-hour minimum wage.

The New York Times

The spokeswoman did not say whether Ms. Ashton was carrying a specific proposal to end the impasse.

The New York Times

He did not outline a specific proposal, leaving it to Congress to consider something along those lines.

The New York Times

The nation took note, and President Obama has promised reform, though he has not yet made a specific proposal.

The New York Times

Until a specific proposal on the table can be discussed, analyzed and amended, tax reform isn't going anywhere.

The New York Times

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "a specific proposal", ensure that the details of the proposal are readily available or will be elaborated upon to avoid ambiguity. For instance, follow up with specifics or reference supporting documentation.

Common error

Avoid using "a specific proposal" if the proposal is still in a nascent stage. Ensure you have concrete details ready; otherwise, opt for terms like "exploratory ideas" or "preliminary suggestions" to manage expectations effectively.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "a specific proposal" functions as a noun phrase, typically serving as the object of a verb or preposition. Ludwig examples show it being used to introduce or refer to a detailed plan or suggestion. Ludwig AI validates this correct usage.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

73%

Academia

13%

Science

8%

Less common in

Formal & Business

5%

Wiki

1%

Reference

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "a specific proposal" is a commonly used and grammatically correct phrase that introduces a detailed plan or recommendation. As confirmed by Ludwig AI, the phrase functions as a noun phrase, usually serving as the object of a verb or preposition and appears most frequently in news and media. For effective writing, remember to follow up with the specifics of the proposal to prevent vagueness. Alternatives such as "a detailed plan" or "a concrete suggestion" can be used to add nuance. While the phrase is versatile, avoiding its use when the proposal is still preliminary can help to manage expectations. Examples from Ludwig illustrate its application in diverse contexts, highlighting its role in clear and effective communication.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

a detailed plan

Focuses on the level of detail in the proposal.

a concrete suggestion

Emphasizes the tangible and practical nature of the suggestion.

a precise recommendation

Highlights the accuracy and exactness of the recommendation.

a particular proposition

Stresses the distinct and individual nature of the proposition.

a well-defined scheme

Emphasizes the structured and organized aspect of the plan.

a clear-cut strategy

Highlights the clarity and straightforwardness of the strategy.

a targeted solution

Emphasizes that the solution is aimed at a particular problem.

a focused approach

Emphasizes the concentration and direction of the approach.

an explicit offer

Highlights the openness and clarity of the offer.

a definitive course of action

Highlights the decisiveness and determined character of the course of action.

FAQs

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

You can use "a specific proposal" to introduce a detailed plan or suggestion, such as: "The committee is reviewing "a specific proposal" for renovating the park."

What are some alternatives to "a specific proposal"?

Consider using alternatives such as "a detailed plan", "a concrete suggestion", or "a precise recommendation" to vary your language and emphasize different aspects of the proposal.

Is it redundant to say "a very specific proposal"?

While not strictly redundant, using "very" before "specific proposal" can add emphasis. However, ensure the proposal truly warrants the additional emphasis; otherwise, ""a specific proposal"" is generally sufficient.

What's the difference between "a specific proposal" and "a general proposal"?

"A specific proposal" outlines detailed steps, timelines, and resources, while a general proposal presents a broader idea without precise details. One might start with a general proposal and then develop a more specific one.