something proposed (such as a plan or assumption)
"The committee rejected his proposal that we should cut funding for the arts program."
an offer of marriage
"After three years together, he finally got down on one knee to make his proposal during their anniversary dinner."
Something which is proposed, or offered for consideration or acceptance
"The committee spent all morning reviewing the new budget proposal before voting on it."
A scheme or design
"The architect presented her latest proposal for a sustainable community center that included solar panels and rainwater harvesting systems."
In plain English: A proposal is when someone suggests an idea or plan for others to consider.
"He got down on one knee to make a marriage proposal."
Usage: A proposal is a formal suggestion or plan put forward for discussion and potential adoption, such as a business initiative or a marriage offer. Use it to describe any specific idea presented with the expectation of receiving feedback or approval.
The word proposal comes from combining the verb propose with the suffix -al. It entered English to describe an offer or suggestion made by someone who proposes something.