an initial proposal

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "an initial proposal" is correct and usable in written English.
You can use it when referring to the first version or draft of a suggestion or plan that is being put forward for consideration. Example: "The team submitted an initial proposal for the new marketing strategy during the meeting."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Academia

Science

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

She also rejects an initial proposal from Byron.

The New York Times - Books

The Commission made an initial proposal on May 13 , 1998

Columbia University

Mr. Sullivan's father, George Sullivan, who also served as mayor, vetoed an initial proposal in 1976.

The New York Times

The budget for the transit hub has ballooned since 2003, when an initial proposal estimated the cost at $2.2 billion.

The New York Times

INVOLVE YOUR EMPLOYEE Ask her to prepare an initial proposal to use as a starting point in your discussions.

The New York Times

The administration is scheduled to release an initial proposal in January, generating what could be years of debate.

The New York Times

The following is an initial proposal, subject to revision based upon experience and discussion throughout the next year.

Yale University

After an initial proposal was written by members of both churches in 1990, it came up for its first votes of approval in 1997.

The New York Times

In an initial proposal to redraw the State Senate district, all of Borough Park was included in the 22nd Senate District.

The New York Times

Ministers have already had to withdraw an initial proposal under protest from Labour and campaigners – and the Lib Dem health minister Norman Lamb re-drafted the regulations.

The Guardian

Union members say the league asked for numerous concessions in an initial proposal during two preliminary bargaining sessions after the All-Star Game break.

The New York Times - Sports

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When presenting "an initial proposal", clearly state that it is subject to change and further refinement to manage expectations.

Common error

Avoid treating "an initial proposal" as if it's set in stone. Ensure stakeholders understand it's a starting point for discussion and development, not a non-negotiable document.

Linguistic Context

An initial proposal functions as a noun phrase, typically serving as the subject or object of a sentence. It denotes the first iteration of a plan or suggestion presented for consideration. Ludwig AI validates this usage across numerous examples.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

44%

Academia

22%

Science

18%

Less common in

Formal & Business

16%

Wiki

0%

Reference

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

An initial proposal is a common noun phrase used to describe the first version of a plan or suggestion. Ludwig AI confirms that the phrase is grammatically correct and frequently used in various contexts, including news, academia, and science. When using "an initial proposal", it's important to clarify that it is preliminary and subject to change. Related phrases include "a preliminary suggestion" and "a first draft". Recognizing its function and purpose, as well as avoiding the common error of treating it as a final version, will ensure clear and effective communication.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

a preliminary suggestion

Replaces "proposal" with "suggestion" and "initial" with "preliminary", indicating a less formal offering.

a starting proposition

Substitutes "proposal" with "proposition", emphasizing the aspect of putting something forward for consideration.

a first draft

Focuses on the early stage of development, highlighting the unrefined nature of the plan.

a tentative plan

Emphasizes the uncertainty and potential for change in the initial plan.

an opening gambit

Uses a more figurative term to describe the initial move or offer.

a pilot project

Suggests a trial run or experiment to test the viability of a larger plan.

a baseline offer

Highlights the initial terms or conditions put forward in a negotiation.

an exploratory submission

Stresses the investigative and preliminary nature of the presented material.

a concept paper

Refers to a brief document outlining the core ideas of a proposed project.

a preliminary assessment

Indicates an early evaluation or judgment made on a given subject.

FAQs

How to use "an initial proposal" in a sentence?

You can use "an initial proposal" to refer to the first version of a plan or suggestion, as in "The committee reviewed "an initial proposal" for the budget."

What can I say instead of "an initial proposal"?

You can use alternatives like "a preliminary suggestion", "a first draft", or "a tentative plan", depending on the context.

Which is correct, "an initial proposal" or "a final proposal"?

"An initial proposal" refers to the beginning stages, while "a final proposal" signifies the completed version. Use the one that accurately reflects the stage of the proposal.

What's the difference between "an initial proposal" and "a concept paper"?

"An initial proposal" is a general term for a preliminary plan. A "concept paper" is a specific type of document that outlines the core ideas of a project or plan.