make a proposal

USAGE SUMMARY

"make a proposal" is correct and usable in written English.
You can use it when you want to suggest an idea or plan. For example: "We need to come up with a solution, so why don't we make a proposal and see what the others think?".

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Academia

Formal & Business

Science

Wiki

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

"I couldn't get them to make a proposal to me in countering anything I was proposing to them," Phillips said.

The New York Times - Sports

If someone wants to make a proposal, that's all electronic.

The Guardian

Secondly, we make a proposal for three complementary, coordinated views of these algorithms.

Electronic Notes in Theoretical Computer Science

Now the foreign minister can make a proposal only if EU governments unanimously ask for it.

The Economist

"The city did make a proposal that contemplates cuts to the underfunded pensions," Mr. Bennett said.

The New York Times

"She did make a proposal to lease the place," Ms. Becker said.

The New York Times

Complicated wording and jargon only make a proposal difficult to read.

Cornell University

The North's simply said, "Both sides agreed to make a proposal to their military".

The New York Times

Ask: When you are ready to make a proposal, do it in the right way.

The Guardian

"It is on the British government to make a proposal," he said.

The Guardian

"Alex suggested I make a proposal about 'what I need to make this work.

The New Yorker

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When crafting a proposal, ensure it clearly outlines the problem, your proposed solution, and the expected benefits. This clarity helps decision-makers quickly understand the value of your suggestion.

Common error

Avoid using overly technical jargon or complicated wording when you "make a proposal". Clear, concise language ensures your idea is easily understood and more likely to be accepted.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "make a proposal" functions as a verbal phrase used to describe the act of presenting a formal suggestion, plan, or offer for consideration. Ludwig AI confirms its correctness and usability, highlighting its role in conveying ideas or plans.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

35%

Academia

20%

Formal & Business

20%

Less common in

Science

15%

Wiki

10%

Reference

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The phrase "make a proposal" is a common and grammatically sound way to express the act of suggesting a plan or idea. As Ludwig AI confirms, it's widely used across various domains, including news, academia, business, and science. When using this phrase, ensure your proposal is clear, concise, and outlines the problem, solution, and expected benefits. While "make a proposal" is generally appropriate for formal writing, consider alternatives such as "submit a proposition" or "put forward a suggestion" depending on the specific context. Avoiding jargon and overcomplicated wording is crucial for ensuring your proposal is easily understood and well-received.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

submit a proposition

Changes the verb to "submit" and uses the more formal noun "proposition".

put forward a suggestion

Replaces "proposal" with "suggestion" and uses the phrasal verb "put forward".

offer an idea

Uses a more general term "idea" instead of "proposal", simplifying the expression.

present a plan

Substitutes "proposal" with "plan", emphasizing a structured approach.

table a motion

Uses formal, often parliamentary, term to suggest a formal proposal.

advance a recommendation

Emphasizes the recommendation aspect, using a more formal tone.

float an idea

Uses a more casual and exploratory term.

lodge a submission

Formal and emphasizes the act of officially filing something.

bring forward a scheme

Emphasizes a detailed and often complex plan.

set forth a plan

Slightly more formal, emphasizing a clear and structured presentation.

FAQs

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

You can use "make a proposal" when you want to suggest a plan or idea. For example, "The committee will "make a proposal" to the board next week."

What are some alternatives to "make a proposal"?

You can use alternatives like "submit a proposition", "put forward a suggestion", or "offer an idea" depending on the context.

Is it appropriate to use "make a proposal" in formal writing?

Yes, "make a proposal" is appropriate for formal writing. It is a clear and professional way to suggest a plan or idea. However, depending on the specific context, more formal alternatives like "lodge a submission" might be suitable.

What should I include when I "make a proposal"?

A good proposal should include a clear description of the problem, your proposed solution, the expected benefits, and a detailed implementation plan. The goal is to convince the audience of the value and feasibility of your suggestion.