propose altering

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "propose altering" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used when suggesting a change or modification to something, typically in a formal or professional context. Example: "During the meeting, I would like to propose altering the project timeline to better accommodate our resources."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

3 human-written examples

The N.F.L. may also propose altering the injured reserve rules, so that they would no longer be season-ending but more like baseball's disabled list.

The New York Times - Sports

The Democrats currently have no desire to point that out, but reasonable people from both parties will eventually have to come together and propose altering the most irresponsible parts of the package.

The New York Times

Current proposals for change affect only the articles of the Civil Code that pertain to marriage in gendered language, and propose "altering the words from 'male' and 'female' to gender-neutral language," Gay Star News reported.

The New York Times

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

55 human-written examples

(In other signs of the changing environment, a panel of Republicans proposed altering the current primary system, to allow only smaller states to vote first).

The New York Times

A group of countries led by Japan, proposed altering the dispute settlement process last week, reflecting worries that the rules' vague language is allowing countries to skirt their obligations.

The New York Times

We also proposed altering lineup procedures, since eyewitness testimony has proved to be far less trustworthy than I ever thought while I was a prosecutor.

The New Yorker

The F.A.A. has proposed altering the fee structure to cover the estimated $15 billion to $25 billion cost of modernizing the current air traffic control system.

The New York Times

Polls show that a majority of elderly voters nationally oppose changes in Medicare or Social Security, which Mr. Ryan in the past has also proposed altering.

The New York Times

On Friday morning John had put the finishing touches to a homemade timetable he and Foster had devised, which proposed altering existing services in the Lune Valley to give four services a day instead of just one.

The Guardian

And today, in the latest sign that party moderates want to minimize friction with the mainland, a legislator proposed altering the party's statement of principles to remove its calls for rewriting the Constitution and declaring a republic.

The New York Times

During a closed-door meeting with House Republicans on Wednesday, Ryan proposed altering the floor process for appropriations bills.

Huffington Post

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "propose altering", ensure the context is appropriate for a formal or professional tone. This phrase is suitable for suggesting changes in official documents, plans, or procedures.

Common error

Avoid using "propose altering" in casual conversations or informal writing. Opt for simpler alternatives like "suggest changing" or "recommend modifying" to maintain a natural tone.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "propose altering" functions as a verb phrase used to introduce a suggestion for change or modification. This is evident from Ludwig, which identifies its usage in contexts where adjustments to rules, plans, or procedures are being considered.

Expression frequency: Uncommon

Frequent in

News & Media

40%

Science

30%

Formal & Business

10%

Less common in

Wiki

10%

Encyclopedias

5%

Reference

5%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "propose altering" is a verb phrase used to formally suggest changes or modifications, primarily in professional or scientific contexts. According to Ludwig, the phrase is grammatically correct and best suited for formal proposals or documented recommendations. While it's a valid and effective phrase, it's important to consider the context and audience to ensure the tone is appropriate. For more informal settings, alternatives like "suggest modifying" or "recommend changing" may be more suitable. When aiming for clarity and precision in professional communications, "propose altering" serves as a reliable option.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

suggest modifying

Replaces "propose" with "suggest" and "altering" with "modifying", offering a slightly less formal tone.

recommend changing

Substitutes "propose" with "recommend" and "altering" with "changing", indicating a formal suggestion.

advocate revising

Uses "advocate" and "revising" to suggest active support for making changes.

put forward amendments to

Expresses a formal suggestion for changes using a more complex structure.

float the idea of revising

Implies a tentative suggestion, less assertive than "propose altering".

table a motion to amend

Offers a formal process for making alterations, typical in parliamentary or board settings.

broach the subject of modifying

Means to introduce the topic of altering something, often carefully or indirectly.

hint at adjustments to

Subtly suggests alterations, without explicitly proposing them.

consider a shift in

Suggests thinking about a change of direction or approach.

entertain the notion of tweaking

Implies a light, possibly minor, alteration or adjustment.

FAQs

How can I use "propose altering" in a sentence?

You can use "propose altering" when suggesting a formal change or modification to something. For example, "The committee will "propose altering" the regulations to improve efficiency."

What can I say instead of "propose altering"?

Alternatives include "suggest modifying", "recommend changing", or "advocate revising", depending on the level of formality you want to convey.

Is "propose altering" formal or informal?

"Propose altering" is generally considered a formal phrase, suitable for professional or official contexts. Simpler alternatives are more appropriate for informal settings.

Which is correct, "propose altering" or "propose to alter"?

Both "propose altering" and "propose to alter" are grammatically correct. "Propose altering" is a more concise and direct way to express the idea, while "propose to alter" is slightly more verbose but equally acceptable.