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proposal

n.
US //pɹəˈpoʊzəɫ// UK //pɹəpˈəʊzəl// pro·pos·al
  1. 1 a formal plan (n.)
    B2 Upper Intermediate Academic

    a formal plan or suggestion that you give to someone to think about.

    a formal scheme or plan of action submitted for examination or adoption.

    Example

    The committee is reviewing a new proposal to build a park in the city centre.

    Example

    The research team submitted a detailed proposal to the board, outlining the projected costs and potential environmental impact of the new facility.

    Usage

    Often used with the verbs 'submit', 'review', or 'reject'.

  2. 2 marriage offer (n.)
    B2 Upper Intermediate

    an offer of marriage to someone.

    an act of asking someone to marry you.

    Example

    She was so surprised by his romantic proposal during their holiday in Italy.

    Example

    After five years of dating, his surprise proposal on the cliffs of Moher was met with an immediate and joyful acceptance.

    Usage

    Commonly used with the verb 'make' or 'accept'.

    • marriage offer
Origin

From propose + -al.

Idioms1 entry

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