draft a proposal

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "draft a proposal" is correct and usable in written English.
You can use it when you need to create a formal document outlining a plan or suggestion for consideration. Example: "Before the meeting, please draft a proposal for the new marketing strategy we discussed."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

23 human-written examples

He also said it would take several weeks to draft a proposal.

The New York Times

He asked Schrot to draft a proposal for treating several more patients in advance of a "formal, I. R.

The New Yorker

According to Mr. Cocola, the residents would have to draft a proposal to buy back their street from the city.

The New York Times

The ultimate goal was to draft a proposal for greater respect for the environment, and for corrective measures aimed at reducing the environmental impacts.

Journal of Cleaner Production

A better course would be to let the E.P.A. draft a proposal, get it out in the open and offer it for comment from all sides.

The New York Times

His office awarded his ex-girlfriend, Donna Watts-Brighthaupt, a contract to draft a proposal for a youth program in southeast Washington.

The New York Times

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

37 human-written examples

Coaches will meet Wednesday here to begin drafting a proposal.

The New York Times - Sports

The aides then drafted a proposal for a successor entity, the Commonwealth of Independent States.

The New Yorker

In 1994, the Fire Department drafted a proposal to require sprinklers in new multiple-dwelling buildings.

The New York Times

Mr. Thune, for example, is drafting a proposal that would make the tax credits more progressive.

The New York Times

The S.E.C. joined the group and drafted a proposal that was largely accepted by lawmakers.

The New York Times

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "draft a proposal", ensure the context indicates the initial creation or formulation of a plan or suggestion. Consider using more specific verbs like 'develop', 'formulate', or 'write' depending on the precise nuance you want to convey.

Common error

Avoid using "draft a proposal" when you actually mean to say the proposal is in its final stages of completion. Use "finalize a proposal" or "approve the proposal" when the proposal is already completed.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "draft a proposal" functions as a verb phrase, where "draft" acts as a transitive verb requiring a direct object ("proposal"). It describes the action of creating an initial version of a plan or suggestion. Ludwig confirms the correctness of this usage.

Expression frequency: Uncommon

Frequent in

News & Media

58%

Science

24%

Academia

10%

Less common in

Formal & Business

8%

Wiki

0%

Reference

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The phrase "draft a proposal" is a grammatically sound and frequently used expression that describes the act of creating a preliminary version of a plan or suggestion. Ludwig AI confirms its correctness and usability. It is commonly found in news, scientific, and academic contexts, suggesting a neutral to professional register. When using this phrase, be mindful to distinguish it from "finalize a proposal", which indicates the final stages of completion. Consider alternatives like "prepare a proposal" or "write a proposal" for nuanced expression. Remember the core meaning: the initial creation of a plan for consideration.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

prepare a proposal

Replaces "draft" with "prepare", emphasizing the action of getting the proposal ready.

write a proposal

Substitutes "draft" with "write", focusing on the act of composing the proposal.

develop a proposal

Uses "develop" instead of "draft", highlighting the process of elaborating the proposal.

formulate a proposal

Replaces "draft" with "formulate", suggesting a more structured and methodical approach.

create a proposal

Uses "create" instead of "draft", emphasizing the original construction of the proposal.

draw up a proposal

Employs the phrasal verb "draw up" instead of "draft", maintaining a similar level of formality.

put together a proposal

Uses "put together" instead of "draft", indicating the assembling of different elements into a proposal.

compose a proposal

Replaces "draft" with "compose", lending a slightly more formal and literary tone.

design a proposal

Substitutes "draft" with "design", emphasizing the planning and structuring aspects of the proposal.

outline a proposal

Uses "outline" instead of "draft", focusing on creating a skeletal structure for the proposal.

FAQs

How to use "draft a proposal" in a sentence?

You can use "draft a proposal" to indicate the initial creation of a plan. For example: "The committee was tasked to draft a proposal for the new project."

What can I say instead of "draft a proposal"?

You can use alternatives like "prepare a proposal", "write a proposal", or "develop a proposal" depending on the context.

Is it correct to say "draft up a proposal"?

While "draw up a proposal" is acceptable, "draft up a proposal" is less common. Sticking with "draft a proposal" or "draw up a proposal" is generally preferred for clarity and conciseness.

What's the difference between "draft a proposal" and "submit a proposal"?

"Draft a proposal" refers to the creation process, whereas "submit a proposal" refers to formally presenting the proposal for consideration. You draft it first, then you submit it.