Origin: Latin suffix -tion
Proposition has 8 different meanings across 2 categories:
(logic) a statement that affirms or denies something and is either true or false
"In logic, every proposition must be capable of being classified as either true or false."
a proposal offered for acceptance or rejection
"it was a suggestion we couldn't refuse"
an offer for a private bargain (especially a request for sexual favors)
"He made her a proposition that she found impossible to refuse."
The act of offering (an idea) for consideration.
"She made a proposition to buy him dinner if he helped her move apartments."
"The salesperson made me an offer that seemed too good to be true."
Usage: Use the noun form when referring to an offer or proposal, such as "a marriage proposition," rather than using it interchangeably with synonyms like suggestion unless you specifically mean a formal business deal. Avoid confusing this term with its verb definition regarding sexual advances in everyday contexts where only ideas are being discussed.
To make a suggestion of sexual intercourse to (someone with whom one is not sexually involved).
"He made a proposition to her after their casual conversation at the bar, asking if she would come back to his place."
In plain English: To proposition someone is to ask them out on a date or make an offer for something they might want.
"The salesperson tried to proposition his neighbor with an exclusive discount on new furniture."
The word comes from the Latin prōpositiō, meaning "a thing put forward," and entered English through Middle English via Old French. Its original sense of presenting an idea or plan has remained consistent as it traveled across languages.