proposition
n. · v.-
1 a suggestion or plan (n.) B2 Upper Intermediatean idea, plan, or offer that is suggested for people to consider.
a formal proposal or scheme offered for consideration or acceptance.
ExampleThe company made a proposition to buy the smaller firm for ten million dollars.
ExampleThe board of directors carefully weighed the proposition, considering whether the merger would truly benefit the shareholders in the long term.
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2 logic or math (n.) C1 Advanced Academic Technical Matha statement that says something is true or false.
a statement or assertion that expresses a judgment or can be proven true or false.
ExampleThe professor asked us to prove the proposition using basic logic.
ExampleIn formal logic, a proposition must be clearly defined so that its truth value can be tested without ambiguity.
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3 a law to vote on (n.) B2 Upper Intermediate American English Lawa suggested new law that people vote on in an election.
a proposed piece of legislation or constitutional amendment submitted to a popular vote.
ExampleVoters will decide on Proposition 5, which aims to increase funding for schools.
ExampleThe controversial proposition passed by a narrow margin, leading to immediate changes in the state's environmental regulations.
- measure
- ballot initiative
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4 to make an offer (v.) C1 Advanced Informalto suggest a deal or a plan to someone, often in a very direct way.
to make a suggestion or proposal to someone, typically concerning a business deal or a sexual encounter.
ExampleHe propositioned his boss with a plan to start a new department.
ExampleShe was propositioned by a rival firm that offered her a significantly higher salary and better benefits.
UsageThis verb is transitive and requires a direct object.
Teacher's tipIn modern usage, this often implies a sexual advance; students should use it cautiously in professional settings.
From Middle English proposicioun, from Old French proposicion, from Latin prōpositiō, from the verb prōponō.