What context can I use each word in?
Learn when and how to use these words with these examples!
proposal
Example
The company submitted a proposal for the new project. [proposal: noun]
Example
He proposed that we invest in the stock market. [proposed: past tense verb]
suggestion
Example
Do you have any suggestions for a good restaurant in the area? [suggestions: noun]
Example
I suggest that we take a break and come back to this later. [suggest: verb]
Good things to know
Which word is more common?
Suggestion is more commonly used than proposal in everyday language. Suggestion is versatile and can be used in a wide range of contexts, while proposal is more specific and often used in business or legal contexts.
What’s the difference in the tone of formality between proposal and suggestion?
Proposal is more formal than suggestion. It is often used in professional or legal settings, while suggestion can be used in both formal and informal contexts.