rhizoverbBeta
DictionaryRoot: pro-
Latin

pro-

before, forward; on behalf of

Forms

  • pro-
  • por- — An older Latin variant retained in some compounds.

Origin

Reconstructed Proto-Indo-European *pro, ‘before; forward.’

Note

Standing in front of someone can develop into acting on that person’s behalf.

67 / 108
noun / verb

proposition

A proposed undertaking offered for consideration.

Her proposition gives both companies a fair share of the profits.

Etymology
proLatinbefore, forward; on behalf of
+positLatinto put
+ionEnglishan action, process, or result

The components mean putting forward. A proposition is an undertaking placed before people as something they might choose to accept.

More examples

  • We need more time to consider your proposition.
  • Repairing the old bridge is an expensive proposition.
  • She leaves the party after a married coworker propositions her.

Forms

proposition · propositions · propositioned · propositioning

propose verb — To offer a plan for consideration.

Similar words

proposal
More directly names a suggested plan or action.
offer
Emphasizes what someone will give or do for another.
undertaking
Emphasizes the task itself rather than its proposed terms.