a treacherous proposition

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "a treacherous proposition" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used to describe a suggestion or idea that is risky, deceitful, or likely to lead to harm or trouble. Example: "The committee presented a treacherous proposition that could jeopardize the entire project if not handled carefully."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

3 human-written examples

This made backing up a treacherous proposition.

The New York Times

Moviemakers have to somehow negotiate this new distance between the material and the audience, and it can prove a treacherous proposition.

The New York Times

Such changes of systems and mindsets can be a treacherous proposition in MLS, as Aron Winter found at Toronto last season - as the disparity between his desired style and available personnel proved too much.

The Guardian - Sport

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

54 human-written examples

Like any still-evolving genre of criticism, pop writing is perpetually mired in an identity crisis, a sign of health and vibrancy for the form that can also make assembling a book like "Shake It Up" a slippery and treacherous proposition.

The New Yorker

The change follows a treacherous period.

The Economist

Ms. Poehler called it "a treacherous time".

The New York Times - Arts

debate is a treacherous one.

The New York Times - Books

"This is a treacherous intersection.

The New York Times

"Fatigue is a treacherous thing.

The Guardian

Animal smuggling is a treacherous, bloody business.

Independent

And movies are a treacherous art.

The New York Times

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "a treacherous proposition", ensure the context clearly indicates the nature of the risk or potential harm involved. Be specific about what makes the proposition treacherous.

Common error

Avoid using "a treacherous proposition" too frequently in your writing. While appropriate in certain contexts, overuse can make your writing sound overly dramatic. Consider using synonyms like "a risky venture" or "a dangerous proposal" for variety.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "a treacherous proposition" functions as a noun phrase where the adjective "treacherous" modifies the noun "proposition". It characterizes a suggestion or offer as being dangerous or unreliable, as confirmed by Ludwig AI.

Expression frequency: Rare

Frequent in

News & Media

100%

Less common in

Science

0%

Formal & Business

0%

Encyclopedias

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "a treacherous proposition" is a phrase used to describe a suggestion, idea, or course of action that is risky, dangerous, or potentially harmful. Ludwig AI confirms that the phrase is grammatically correct and usable in written English. While not very frequent, it appears primarily in news and media contexts. When using this phrase, be sure to clearly articulate the specific risks involved. Consider synonyms like "a risky venture" or "a dangerous proposal" for variety. Be mindful of overuse, as excessive repetition can detract from your writing's impact. The phrase conveys a sense of caution and should prompt careful evaluation of any plan or idea it describes.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

a dangerous proposal

Substitutes "treacherous" with "dangerous", focusing on the potential for harm.

a perilous undertaking

Replaces "proposition" with "undertaking" and "treacherous" with "perilous", emphasizing the danger involved.

a hazardous scheme

Substitutes "proposition" with "scheme" and "treacherous" with "hazardous", suggesting potential risks.

a risky venture

Replaces "proposition" with "venture" and "treacherous" with "risky", highlighting the uncertain outcome.

a deceitful plan

Replaces "treacherous" with "deceitful", emphasizing the potential for betrayal.

a difficult situation

Shifts the focus to the challenging circumstances rather than a specific suggestion.

a delicate matter

Indicates the need for careful handling due to potential complications.

a thorny issue

Suggests a problem that is complex and difficult to resolve.

a double-edged sword

Emphasizes the potential for both positive and negative consequences.

a gamble

Condenses the phrase to a single word, highlighting the element of chance.

FAQs

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

You can use "a treacherous proposition" to describe a plan, idea, or situation that is risky, dangerous, or could lead to negative consequences. For example, "Accepting their offer seemed like "a treacherous proposition", given their history of unreliable partnerships."

What are some alternatives to saying "a treacherous proposition"?

You can use alternatives like "a risky venture", "a dangerous proposal", or "a perilous undertaking" depending on the specific context and the nuance you want to convey.

Is it grammatically correct to say "a treacherous proposition"?

Yes, it is grammatically correct. "Treacherous" is an adjective modifying the noun "proposition", forming a valid and understandable phrase in English.

What distinguishes "a treacherous proposition" from "a risky proposition"?

"A treacherous proposition" implies a higher degree of danger, deceit, or potential for betrayal compared to "a risky proposition". "Treacherous" suggests a hidden danger or a violation of trust, while "risky" simply indicates the possibility of failure or loss.