Used and loved by millions
Since I tried Ludwig back in 2017, I have been constantly using it in both editing and translation. Ever since, I suggest it to my translators at ProSciEditing.

Justyna Jupowicz-Kozak
CEO of Professional Science Editing for Scientists @ prosciediting.com
who proposed
Grammar usage guide and real-world examplesUSAGE SUMMARY
The phrase "who proposed" is correct and usable in written English.
You can use it when referring to a person who has suggested an idea, plan, or theory. Example: "The new policy was developed by a committee, but it was Dr. Smith who proposed the initial concept."
✓ Grammatically correct
News & Media
Science
Alternative expressions(2)
Table of contents
Usage summary
Human-verified examples
Expert writing tips
Linguistic context
Ludwig's wrap-up
Alternative expressions
FAQs
Human-verified examples from authoritative sources
Exact Expressions
58 human-written examples
Brian Morris, who proposed the swap, said there is history to support his proposal.
News & Media
Who proposed the bill?
News & Media
She was the one who proposed.
News & Media
And it was he who proposed joining Powerball.
News & Media
It even hired consultants, who proposed the lien sales.
News & Media
Ciaran Hinds is Captain Frederick Wentworth, the man who proposed.
News & Media
And he was the one who proposed the bacon.
News & Media
Mr. Rakhmon, who proposed the measure, must still sign it.
News & Media
While there, she met and dated a Spaniard, who proposed.
News & Media
Instead, she voted with a mayor who proposed budget cuts".
News & Media
I met the guy who proposed to me.
News & Media
Expert writing Tips
Best practice
When using "who proposed", ensure the context clearly identifies what was proposed. Providing specific details adds clarity and impact to your writing.
Common error
Avoid using "who proposed" without a clear antecedent. Ensure it's immediately obvious who is being referred to and what they proposed to avoid confusion.
Source & Trust
88%
Authority and reliability
4.6/5
Expert rating
Real-world application tested
Linguistic Context
The phrase "who proposed" functions as a relative clause, modifying a noun or pronoun to provide additional information about the person or entity that introduced a specific idea, plan, or suggestion. As confirmed by Ludwig, the phrase is correct and usable in written English.
Frequent in
News & Media
66%
Science
19%
Formal & Business
4%
Less common in
Wiki
6%
Encyclopedias
0%
Reference
0%
Ludwig's WRAP-UP
In summary, the phrase "who proposed" is a grammatically sound and frequently used construction for identifying the originator of an idea or plan. According to Ludwig, this phrase is suitable for a wide range of contexts, particularly in news, science, and formal writing. While synonyms like "who suggested" exist, "who proposed" often carries a slightly more formal tone. When employing this phrase, ensure the context makes clear who is being referenced and what was proposed. Remember, Ludwig confirms the correct and usable nature of this phrase.
More alternative expressions(6)
Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:
who suggested
Replaces "proposed" with a more common synonym, implying a less formal suggestion.
the one who suggested
Uses a different sentence structure with 'the one'.
who recommended
Implies a more formal endorsement or advice, rather than a simple suggestion.
who put forward
A more formal and emphatic way of saying "proposed", often used in official contexts.
who suggested the idea of
Adds more words to the phrase.
who advocated
Suggests a stronger support and promotion of the idea.
who introduced
Focuses on the act of bringing something new to attention or discussion.
who initiated
Highlights the role of starting or instigating the idea or plan.
who came up with
Indicates the process of thinking and creating an idea.
who originated
Emphasizes the creation or invention of the idea.
FAQs
How can I use "who proposed" in a sentence?
Use "who proposed" to identify the person suggesting an idea, plan, or action, such as "the scientist "who proposed" the theory" or "the councilman "who proposed" the new law".
What are some alternatives to "who proposed"?
Alternatives include "who suggested", "who recommended", or "who put forward", depending on the formality and emphasis you want to convey.
Is it more formal to say "who proposed" or "who suggested"?
"Who proposed" tends to be slightly more formal than "who suggested", implying a more deliberate and considered offering of an idea or plan. "Who proposed" is more useful in official or academic contexts.
What is the difference between "who proposed" and "who advocated"?
"Who proposed" simply identifies the person who put forth an idea, while "who advocated" implies active support and promotion of that idea. The latter suggests a stronger level of commitment and action.
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Table of contents
Usage summary
Human-verified examples
Expert writing tips
Linguistic context
Ludwig's wrap-up
Alternative expressions
FAQs
Source & Trust
88%
Authority and reliability
4.6/5
Expert rating
Real-world application tested