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Proposal

A proposal is a formal suggestion, plan, or offer put forward for consideration, acceptance, or action by others.^[1] It serves as a structured communication tool across diverse domains, including personal relationships, business transactions, academic research, and legislative processes, where the goal is to persuade or inform stakeholders about the viability and benefits of the proposed idea.^[2] In personal contexts, a proposal most notably refers to a marriage proposal, an offer from one individual to another to enter into matrimony.^[1] This tradition is typically marked by symbolic gestures such as presenting an engagement ring.^[3] In business settings, a proposal is a targeted document submitted, often in response to a request for proposal (RFP), that outlines how a company intends to address a client's specific needs for products, services, or projects.^[4] It emphasizes the provider's methodology, costs, timelines, and unique value to secure contracts or funding, distinguishing the proposer from competitors through evidence of capability and alignment with client objectives.^[4] Academically and scientifically, a research proposal is a comprehensive blueprint detailing a planned study, including its objectives, methodology, expected outcomes, and resource requirements, designed to seek approval and funding from institutions or granting bodies.^[5] It must demonstrate the significance of the research question, feasibility, and potential impact to advance knowledge in a field.^[6] In governance and law, a legislative proposal constitutes an initial draft of policy or law, commonly introduced as a bill, which undergoes debate, amendment, and voting in legislative assemblies to potentially become enacted legislation.^[7] Such proposals address public issues, from economic reforms to social welfare, requiring rigorous justification and stakeholder input.^[8]

Definition and etymology

General definition

A proposal is a formal or informal suggestion, plan, or offer put forward for consideration, acceptance, or rejection by others.^[9]^[10] It serves as a structured communication aimed at initiating discussion or decision-making on a particular idea or course of action. This concept applies across diverse contexts, from personal suggestions to organized plans, emphasizing the proposer's intent to influence outcomes through clear articulation. Proposals often focus on outlining objectives, proposed methods, anticipated benefits, and potential outcomes to demonstrate feasibility and value. Proposals can take various forms, including verbal presentations, written documents, or visual representations such as diagrams or slides, depending on the audience and purpose. A common structure features an introduction identifying the problem or opportunity, a description of the proposed solution, a rationale justifying its merits, and a call to action encouraging endorsement or next steps. Unlike a "proposition," which typically denotes a declarative statement subject to debate or logical evaluation, a proposal is inherently action-oriented and persuasive, seeking commitment to an implemented plan rather than mere assertion.^[11] For example, a marriage proposal exemplifies this general form by personally suggesting a lifelong partnership for mutual consideration.^[9]

Historical origins

The term "proposal" derives from the Latin verb proponere, meaning "to put forth" or "to set before," which entered Old French as proposer around the 12th century and influenced the English verb "propose" by the late 14th century.^[12] The noun form "proposal," denoting a formal suggestion or plan, first appeared in English in the late 16th century, with the Oxford English Dictionary citing its earliest evidence in 1597 from a sermon by John King, Bishop of London, where it referred to a scheme offered for consideration.^[13] In medieval and early modern texts, the concept was often conveyed through related terms like "proposition" in philosophical and rhetorical works, but "proposal" emerged as a distinct noun for structured offers in intellectual discourse. By the 17th and 18th centuries, "proposal" expanded beyond rhetorical uses to encompass diplomatic negotiations and social arrangements, reflecting the era's emphasis on formal agreements. In diplomacy, it described preliminary offers or terms in interstate talks. Similarly, the term began applying to marital offers, with customs evolving from arranged betrothals toward more individualized declarations amid shifting courtship norms in the 18th and 19th centuries. The 19th century marked a shift influenced by industrialization, where "proposal" increasingly signified written business plans or tenders for commercial ventures, standardizing communication in expanding markets. Associations and industry leaders hosted early business plan competitions in the 1800s, requiring participants to submit detailed proposals for evaluation and potential investment, which helped formalize entrepreneurial pitches.^[14] Key milestones include the 1660s integration of "proposal" into scientific practice via the Royal Society of London, founded that year to promote experimental learning; fellows routinely submitted experimental proposals for discussion and testing, aligning the term with the emerging scientific method.^[15] In the 20th century, "proposal" underwent further standardization in academic and legal domains, with grant-writing guidelines in academia evolving toward rationalized formats by the mid-century to facilitate peer review and funding decisions.^[16] Legal applications, such as legislative bills and motions, also adopted structured proposal protocols through codified parliamentary procedures, enhancing clarity in governance.^[17]

Marriage proposal

A marriage proposal is a formal declaration by one person to another expressing the intent to enter into matrimony, typically accompanied by symbolic gestures such as presenting an engagement ring or a personal token of commitment.^[18] This act serves as a pivotal moment in romantic relationships, marking the transition from courtship to engagement and emphasizing mutual consent and future partnership.^[19] The tradition of the marriage proposal in Western cultures traces its roots to medieval practices, where knights would kneel before noblewomen as a sign of respect, humility, and loyalty, a gesture that evolved into the modern custom of proposing on one knee.^[20] By the 15th century, the presentation of an engagement ring gained prominence, with Archduke Maximilian of Austria reportedly giving the first diamond betrothal ring to Mary of Burgundy in 1477, symbolizing enduring commitment.^[21] In the 19th century, Victorian-era customs further romanticized the proposal, popularizing elaborate declarations and diamond rings as emblems of fidelity, often in private settings to underscore emotional intimacy.^[22] Variations include public proposals, such as elopement offers that bypass formal family involvement, allowing couples to affirm their bond independently.^[23] Cultural practices surrounding marriage proposals vary widely, reflecting societal values on family, community, and romance. In India, where arranged marriages remain common, the proposal often involves family-led negotiations, beginning with matchmakers or parental discussions to assess compatibility, caste, and economic factors, as seen in traditions like the Hindu Mangni ceremony where families exchange gifts to formalize intent.^[24] This contrasts with individualistic approaches in other cultures but shares the goal of communal endorsement. Modern global trends have introduced surprise elements, such as flash mob performances in public spaces, where friends and performers orchestrate choreographed displays to celebrate the proposal, blending tradition with contemporary spectacle.^[25] Psychologically, a marriage proposal embodies vulnerability, as the proposer risks rejection while seeking affirmation of the relationship's depth, with consent being central to its ethical execution.^[26] Handling rejection involves emotional resilience, often tied to prior communication about marriage; studies show that 60% of rejected proposals occurred without previous discussions of commitment, highlighting the importance of mutual readiness.^[27] In surveyed Western populations, acceptance rates exceed 90% when couples have already expressed intent to marry, underscoring the proposal's role as a ceremonial confirmation rather than an uncertain gamble.^[19] Legally, a marriage proposal ties into engagement as a preliminary commitment, often viewed as a conditional contract where the engagement ring serves as consideration, returnable upon breach in many jurisdictions if the marriage does not proceed.^[28] However, while historically allowing suits for "breach of promise to marry" in some U.S. states, modern laws in most places treat engagements as non-binding morally rather than enforceable, focusing instead on the subsequent marriage contract.^[29]

Friendship or partnership proposals

Friendship or partnership proposals in non-romantic personal relationships involve informal suggestions to establish or strengthen platonic bonds, often through shared activities like proposing a joint hobby venture or cohabitation arrangements such as becoming roommates.^[30] These proposals differ from romantic variants, like marriage proposals, by emphasizing voluntary, low-stakes connections without formal commitments.^[31] Common types include friendship initiations, where an individual invites another to join a social group or recurring activity to foster familiarity, and partnership offers, such as suggesting a collaborative project or shared living situation to build mutual support.^[30] These acts are rooted in social exchange theory, where participants anticipate reciprocal benefits like emotional support or companionship, enhancing relationship viability.^[32] Social norms heavily influence these proposals, varying by culture; in individualistic Western societies, direct invitations are common and valued for assertiveness, while collectivist cultures often favor indirect approaches to prioritize group harmony and avoid imposing on others. Mutual benefit remains a core expectation across contexts, as proposals succeed when perceived as equitable exchanges that align with both parties' needs.^[33] Challenges in these proposals often center on rejection, which can evoke emotions like hurt, anxiety, or lowered self-esteem, yet handling it gracefully—through maintaining composure and viewing it as situational rather than personal—helps preserve dignity and opens doors to future connections.^[34] Psychological research highlights how successful proposals build trust by demonstrating vulnerability and reliability early on, as seen in studies of adolescent-to-adult friendship formation where consistent, low-risk interactions gradually deepen communal bonds.^[35] Friendships emerging from such proposals also serve as contexts for developing social skills, including empathy and conflict resolution.^[36] In modern settings, online platforms facilitate these proposals through social media, where users suggest virtual meetups or collaborations in interest-based groups; for instance, as of 2015, 64% of teens who made new friends online reported doing so via social media interactions.^[37] This digital approach lowers barriers to initiation but requires navigating cues like response times to gauge interest and avoid misinterpretation.^[38]

Business and professional contexts

Business proposal

A business proposal is a formal document or presentation designed to persuade potential clients or investors to engage in a commercial opportunity by outlining the proposed products, services, idea, associated costs, timelines, and anticipated returns.^[39] It serves as a strategic pitch in commercial settings, emphasizing how the offering addresses specific market needs to drive profitability.^[40] Standard components of a business proposal typically include an executive summary that provides a high-level overview of the proposal's key points and value proposition; a problem statement identifying the client's challenge or opportunity; a proposed solution detailing how the offering resolves the issue with specifics on methodology and deliverables; a budget breakdown itemizing costs such as labor, materials, and overhead; and a risk assessment evaluating potential challenges and mitigation strategies.^[40]^[41] These elements ensure the document is structured, comprehensive, and actionable, often supplemented by timelines, qualifications of the proposing team, and terms of agreement.^[42] Effective strategies for crafting persuasive business proposals focus on tailoring content to the audience's specific needs and priorities, such as customizing the solution to align with their operational goals or pain points.^[40] Persuasive techniques include incorporating quantitative metrics like return on investment (ROI) to demonstrate financial viability, calculated using the formula:

\text{ROI} = \left( \frac{\text{Net Profit}}{\text{Cost of Investment}} \right) \times 100

This simple ROI calculation highlights expected gains relative to expenses, helping to build a compelling case for approval.^[43] Additional approaches involve using clear, client-centered language, visual aids like charts for timelines and budgets, and evidence-based arguments to enhance credibility and engagement.^[44] The historical development of business proposals traces back to 19th-century sales pitches, often disseminated through newspaper advertisements and direct solicitations to promote goods and services in emerging industrial markets.^[45] By the 20th century, these evolved into formalized Requests for Proposals (RFPs), particularly from the 1960s onward, as governments and corporations standardized procurement processes to solicit detailed bids for complex projects, shifting from informal pitches to structured, competitive documents.^[45] Business proposals are categorized as solicited or unsolicited, with solicited examples responding to an RFP issued by a client seeking bids for a defined need, such as a company requesting proposals for IT infrastructure upgrades.^[46] In contrast, unsolicited proposals proactively pitch an idea without prior invitation, like a consulting firm proposing efficiency improvements to a potential client identified through market research.^[47] Success factors for both types emphasize clarity in communication to avoid ambiguity, incorporation of visuals such as infographics for complex data, and alignment with the recipient's objectives to increase acceptance rates.^[48]

Grant or funding proposal

A grant or funding proposal is a formal document submitted to foundations, government agencies, or other organizations to request financial support for a specific project, typically aimed at charitable, educational, research, or innovative initiatives that address public needs or advance societal goals.^[49] Unlike commercial solicitations, these proposals emphasize the broader societal impact and accountability rather than profit generation.^[50] Key elements of a grant proposal include a needs assessment that justifies the problem or gap the project addresses, clearly defined project goals and objectives, evaluation metrics to measure success, and a sustainability plan outlining how the initiative will continue post-funding.^[51] Budget details must provide line-item justifications, linking costs directly to activities and demonstrating fiscal responsibility, often including personnel, equipment, and indirect costs.^[52] These components ensure the proposal demonstrates feasibility and alignment with the funder's priorities.^[53] The submission process typically begins with adhering to specific guidelines outlined in a Request for Applications (RFA) or similar solicitation, which dictates format, length, and required attachments.^[54] Applications undergo peer review by external experts who evaluate them on criteria such as significance, innovation, approach, investigator qualifications, and environment, often through individual critiques followed by panel discussions.^[55] Common pitfalls include vague or unmeasurable outcomes, failure to follow guidelines precisely, and inadequate justification of budget items, which can lead to immediate rejection.^[56] Grant proposals fall into types such as government grants, exemplified by the National Institutes of Health (NIH) formats that require detailed scientific abstracts and biosketches, and private foundation grants, which often feature simpler applications focused on mission alignment.^[57] Government grants involve more rigorous reporting and compliance but offer larger funding pools, while private foundations provide quicker decisions with fewer bureaucratic hurdles.^[58] Success rates for competitive programs are generally low; as of FY 2024, the NIH R01-equivalent success rate was approximately 20%, varying by institute, and NSF proposals had an overall funding rate of around 25%. In FY 2025, however, NIH success rates declined sharply due to funding delays and policy changes, with a reported 37% drop in new neuroscience-related grants compared to the previous nine-year average.^[59]^[60]^[61]^[62] These rates have been affected by broader fiscal challenges, including proposed budget cuts and implementation of new funding policies in FY 2025, which have reduced the number of awards across various fields.^[61] The evolution of grant proposals accelerated post-World War II, with the establishment of the NSF in 1950 and the expansion of NIH funding mechanisms to support scientific advancement amid Cold War priorities.^[63] This period marked a boom in federal research funding, transitioning from ad hoc wartime allocations to structured peer-reviewed systems.^[64] Standardization emerged in the 1960s, as agencies like NSF developed formal proposal forms and review processes to manage growing volumes of applications efficiently.^[65]

Political and legal contexts

Legislative proposal

A legislative proposal refers to a formal suggestion for a new law, an amendment to an existing law, or a policy change introduced within a legislative body, most commonly in the form of a bill.^[66] These proposals aim to address public policy issues, allocate resources, or regulate societal behaviors through statutory mechanisms.^[67] The process of developing and advancing a legislative proposal typically begins with drafting by lawmakers, their staff, or specialized legislative counsel, often incorporating input from experts or interest groups.^[68] In the U.S. Congress, for instance, a member introduces the bill by submitting it to the clerk, receiving a designation such as "H.R." for House bills or "S." for Senate bills, followed by referral to the appropriate committee.^[69] Committees then conduct reviews, including hearings where evidence is gathered and amendments proposed; if favorably reported, the bill advances to floor debate, potential votes in both chambers, and reconciliation if versions differ.^[70] This structured progression ensures scrutiny at multiple stages, with only a small fraction of introduced bills becoming law.^[66] Key features of legislative proposals include a clear statement of purpose or rationale outlining the problem addressed and intended outcomes, often required in bill preambles or accompanying reports.^[69] Fiscal impact assessments are integral, with the Congressional Budget Office (CBO) providing nonpartisan estimates of budgetary effects for federal proposals, helping lawmakers evaluate costs and revenue implications over a 10-year window. Stakeholder consultations are embedded in the process through public hearings, expert testimonies, and comment periods during committee stages, allowing affected parties to influence the proposal's content.^[69] In a modern context, the Affordable Care Act (ACA) originated as legislative proposals in 2009, with key bills like H.R. 3590 drafted by congressional committees after extensive consultations on health insurance reforms, culminating in passage following debates on coverage expansions and cost controls.^[71] Variations in legislative proposals include those initiated by executive branches, such as presidential budget recommendations drafted by the Office of Management and Budget and introduced via supportive legislators, contrasting with grassroots efforts where citizens persuade members to sponsor bills based on public petitions or advocacy.^[72]^[73] These executive variants often prioritize administration priorities, while member-driven ones reflect diverse constituency needs.

Ballot proposition

A ballot proposition, also known as a ballot measure or initiative, is a proposed statute, constitutional amendment, or policy question placed on an election ballot for voters to approve or reject directly. In the United States, these are a form of direct democracy available in 26 states, where citizens can initiate proposals to bypass legislative bodies.^[74]^[75] There are two primary types: citizen-initiated initiatives, which propose new laws or amendments, and referendums, which seek voter approval or rejection of existing legislative actions. To qualify, proponents must typically gather a set number of valid signatures from registered voters, often equivalent to 5-8% of votes cast in the previous gubernatorial election; for example, in California, statutory initiatives require signatures from 5% of such voters, while constitutional ones need 8%. Once verified by election officials, the proposition enters a campaign period where supporters and opponents debate its merits, followed by inclusion on the ballot during a general or special election. If approved by a simple majority, it becomes law or amends the constitution, though some states require supermajorities for certain changes.^[74]^[74] A landmark example is California's Proposition 13, enacted in 1978 as a citizen-initiated constitutional amendment to address rising property taxes. Championed by activists Howard Jarvis and Paul Gann, it limited property tax rates to 1% of assessed value at the time of purchase, capped annual assessment increases at 2% (or inflation, whichever is lower), and required two-thirds legislative approval for new state taxes. The measure qualified via petition signatures and passed with 65% voter support on June 6, 1978, dramatically reducing local government revenues and reshaping fiscal policy, though it has faced criticism for contributing to housing affordability challenges.^[76] Ballot propositions enhance democratic participation by empowering citizens to directly shape policy, potentially reducing representation gaps and increasing voter engagement, as evidenced by studies showing educative effects that boost political knowledge. However, they carry risks, including the spread of misinformation during campaigns, dominance by well-funded special interests capable of meeting high signature thresholds, and the complexity of issues that may overwhelm voters. Historically, success rates for citizen-initiated measures have hovered around 30-40%, with many failing due to these challenges, though outcomes vary by state and era.^[77]^[78]^[79] Globally, similar mechanisms exist but differ in scope and frequency; Switzerland employs frequent mandatory and optional referendums on constitutional matters, requiring approval by both a popular majority and a majority of cantons, with over 600 national votes since 1848 fostering broad citizen input. In contrast, the United Kingdom's citizens' initiatives are rare and often advisory, as seen in the 2011 referendum on electoral reform, which failed amid low turnout and partisan framing. Other nations, like Italy with its abrogative referendums to repeal laws or Latvia requiring 10% of the electorate's signatures for proposals, adapt these tools to complement representative systems, though they generally face fewer propositions annually than active U.S. states like California.^[78]^[78]

Academic and scientific contexts

Research proposal

A research proposal serves as a comprehensive plan in scientific inquiry, articulating a specific research question or hypothesis, the proposed methodology for investigation, and the expected contributions to advancing knowledge in the field. It justifies the need for the study by demonstrating its relevance and feasibility, often serving as a foundational document for obtaining approvals or resources. This structured document ensures that the proposed research aligns with ethical standards and scientific rigor, particularly in disciplines requiring empirical validation. The typical structure of a research proposal encompasses several key components. It begins with a hypothesis or clear research objectives, followed by a concise summary of the relevant literature review to contextualize the study within existing knowledge. The methods section details the experimental design, data collection techniques, and analytical approaches, such as qualitative interviews or quantitative surveys. Ethical considerations address potential risks to participants and mitigation strategies, while a timeline outlines the project's phases and milestones to demonstrate practicality. Central to effective research proposals are elements like a significance statement, which elucidates the broader implications of the findings for theory, policy, or practice. In quantitative research, proposals often include sample size calculations derived from power analysis to ensure sufficient statistical power; this is computed as \Power = 1 - \beta, where \beta denotes the probability of a type II error, typically set to achieve at least 80% power for detecting meaningful effects. Such calculations help avoid underpowered studies that could yield inconclusive results. The review process for research proposals involves rigorous peer evaluation, commonly conducted by funding bodies like the National Science Foundation (NSF) or Institutional Review Boards (IRBs) to assess scientific merit and ethical compliance. This scrutiny is especially prevalent in medicine, where IRBs evaluate human subjects protections, and in social sciences, where interdisciplinary panels review methodological soundness. Often, these proposals form the basis of grant applications to secure financial support for the research. The practice of formal research proposals evolved in the 20th century, becoming standardized with the advent of institutional funding mechanisms; for instance, the NSF, established in 1950, began systematically reviewing and awarding grants based on such proposals in 1952 to support basic scientific research.^[63]

Thesis or project proposal

A thesis or project proposal is a formal document prepared by a student or academic team to outline the scope, objectives, and methodology of an intended thesis, dissertation, or capstone project as part of fulfilling requirements for an advanced degree, such as a master's or PhD.^[80] It serves as a blueprint for supervisory approval, demonstrating the project's feasibility, scholarly value, and alignment with program standards, and is typically required in graduate programs to ensure the work contributes original knowledge to the field.^[81] Unlike broader research initiatives, it is specifically tied to educational completion under institutional oversight.^[82] Key components of a thesis proposal include a clear statement of research objectives and questions, preliminary literature review or findings to establish context, an outline of the proposed methodology, a timeline for execution, and a bibliography of relevant sources.^[83] These elements emphasize the project's originality—such as novel interpretations or approaches—and its manageable scope to avoid overambition.^[84] For instance, proposals often feature an abstract summarizing the problem and aims, followed by sections on significance and expected contributions, ensuring the work addresses a specific gap in existing scholarship.^[85] The approval process typically involves submission to a supervisory committee, followed by a defense where the proposer presents the plan orally and responds to feedback, leading to revisions if needed before final endorsement.^[86] This review, common in graduate programs, assesses the proposer's ability to conduct independent research and the project's viability, with adjustments often required to refine objectives or methods based on committee input.^[87] The thesis proposal builds upon the foundational research proposal used in earlier academic stages, adapting it for degree-specific supervision.^[88] Variations in thesis proposals occur across disciplines; in STEM fields, they often include detailed hypotheses, experimental designs, and technical methodologies, such as lab protocols, while humanities proposals prioritize interpretive frameworks, archival analysis, and theoretical contributions without empirical testing.^[89] Timelines post-approval generally span 1-2 years for completion, allowing time for data collection, analysis, and writing, though this varies by program length and complexity.^[90] Challenges in crafting thesis proposals include preventing scope creep, where the project expands beyond initial boundaries due to emerging ideas or unclear definitions, potentially delaying completion or diluting focus.^[91] University guidelines, such as those from Harvard's science programs, address this by recommending succinct formats—typically 6-8 double-spaced pages—with specific, actionable aims using verbs like "identify" or "determine" to maintain precision and feasibility.^[85] Similarly, Harvard Extension School advises 15-20 pages with defined sections to ensure the proposal remains targeted and supervisor-approved before advancing.^[90]

Arts, entertainment, and media

Films

The portrayal of proposals in cinema, particularly within romantic comedies, often serves as a comedic and emotional climax, exploring themes of commitment, deception, and personal growth. These narratives frequently revolve around marriage proposals as catalysts for conflict and resolution, blending humor with insights into relationships and societal expectations. A landmark example is the 2009 American romantic comedy The Proposal, directed by Anne Fletcher. The film stars Sandra Bullock as Margaret Tate, a high-powered Canadian book editor in New York whose visa expires, threatening deportation. To circumvent this, she coerces her assistant, Andrew Paxton (played by Ryan Reynolds), into a sham marriage, offering him a promotion in exchange; their ruse is tested when they travel to Andrew's family home in Alaska for a visit, leading to unexpected romantic developments amid family chaos and immigration scrutiny.^[92]^[93] Produced by Touchstone Pictures with a $40 million budget, The Proposal achieved significant commercial success, grossing $317.4 million worldwide and becoming one of the highest-grossing romantic comedies of the 2000s.^[94] It opened at number one at the North American box office, earning $33.6 million in its debut weekend.^[94] Critically, the film garnered mixed reception, with a 45% approval rating on Rotten Tomatoes based on 191 critic reviews, praised for its stars' chemistry but critiqued for formulaic plotting.^[92] Other cinematic works featuring proposal themes include international and independent productions. For instance, the 2017 Norwegian short The Wedding Proposal, directed by Eirik Tveiten, where a boat-side marriage proposal unravels due to mismatched expectations, underscoring relational miscommunications in a serene yet tense setting.^[95] For instance, the 2024 American TV movie The Engagement Plan depicts a man proving himself on a family farm to win approval for his proposal, blending romance with family dynamics.^[96] The depiction of proposals in films has evolved significantly from the screwball comedies of the 1930s, which used rapid-fire wit and social satire to culminate in marriages that reinforced gender and class norms, to contemporary romantic comedies emphasizing individual empowerment and subversion of traditional tropes. Early screwball examples, such as The Philadelphia Story (1940) directed by George Cukor, feature multiple proposals amid high-society intrigue, portraying marriage as a battleground for independence and reconciliation. In contrast, modern entries like The Proposal shift focus to empowered female leads navigating professional and personal autonomy, often through contrived setups like fake engagements that evolve into genuine connections, reflecting broader cultural changes toward gender equality and diverse relationship dynamics.^[97] This progression mirrors societal shifts, from post-Depression escapism in screwball era films to today's emphasis on realistic emotional stakes and inclusivity in rom-com storytelling.^[98]

Literature

In literature, the marriage proposal serves as a pivotal narrative device, often encapsulating tensions around social expectations, personal desire, and power dynamics. From the 19th century onward, authors have used proposals to explore the constraints of courtship rituals, particularly in works reflecting class hierarchies and gender norms. This motif appears across genres, from novels and plays to poetry, highlighting moments of vulnerability, rejection, or farce that drive character development and thematic depth.^[99] One of the most iconic depictions occurs in Jane Austen's Pride and Prejudice (1813), where Fitzwilliam Darcy's initial proposal to Elizabeth Bennet is rejected due to his arrogance and her perception of his interference in her sister's romance. This scene, marked by Elizabeth's sharp rebuke, underscores the novel's critique of pride and prejudice as barriers to mutual respect in courtship. Darcy's later, more humble proposal resolves these conflicts, affirming love based on equality rather than status. The rejected proposal acts as a turning point, propelling character growth and satirical commentary on Regency-era marriage markets.^[100]^[101] Anton Chekhov's one-act play The Proposal (1888), originally titled A Marriage Proposal, satirizes the absurdities of matrimonial negotiations in rural Russia through the hypochondriac Ivan Lomov, who visits his neighbor to propose to his daughter Natalya. What begins as a formal overture devolves into petty arguments over land and dogs, only for the pair to reconcile in exhaustion and accept the match. Chekhov employs farce to lampoon how economic and familial pressures overshadow romantic sentiment, portraying the proposal as a comedic clash of egos rather than genuine affection.^[102]^[103] In modern romance, Jasmine Guillory's The Proposal (2018) updates the trope for contemporary audiences, centering on Nik, a Black woman publicly rejecting a misguided on-screen proposal at a Dodgers game, only to find unexpected connection with the Latino paramedic, Carlos, who helps her escape the spotlight. The novel blends humor and cultural nuance to examine consent, racial dynamics, and serendipitous love, positioning the proposal as a catalyst for authentic partnership amid public scrutiny. Guillory's work exemplifies how the motif persists in diverse, intersectional narratives.^[104]^[105] Poetry also engages the proposal through intimate, introspective lenses, as in Elizabeth Barrett Browning's Sonnets from the Portuguese (1850), a sequence inspired by her courtship with Robert Browning. Sonnet 43, famously beginning "How do I love thee? Let me count the ways," articulates profound devotion that culminates in their eventual marriage, while earlier sonnets like 14 grapple with conditions of love, rejecting proposals based on pity or convenience. These verses transform the proposal into a spiritual and emotional declaration, emphasizing unconditional commitment over societal convention.^[106]^[107] Recurring themes in these works include social class barriers, as seen in Austen's dissection of entailment and inheritance; gender roles, where women navigate limited agency in accepting or refusing suitors; and motifs of rejection, which often lead to personal transformation or ironic unions. In 19th-century fiction, the proposal functions as a plot device to heighten dramatic tension, resolving or complicating romantic arcs while mirroring real-world customs like chaperoned courtships and dowry negotiations. This prominence rose during the Victorian era, when literature increasingly reflected evolving marriage ideals amid industrialization and women's emerging voices, shifting from arranged alliances to affection-based unions.^[108]^[99]^[109]

Music and other media

In music, the theme of proposals often explores romantic commitment, vulnerability, and occasional rejection through lyrics that depict pivotal moments of asking for marriage. For instance, Jason Derulo's 2013 single "Marry Me" captures the nervousness and joy of a proposal with lines like "A hundred and five days on a wonder ride," emphasizing enduring love and future promises, which became a popular choice for engagements due to its upbeat pop-R&B style.^[110] Similarly, Train's 2010 single "Marry Me," from the album Save Me, San Francisco (2009), lyrically portrays a spontaneous lakeside proposal, resonating with listeners for its acoustic intimacy and has been featured in numerous wedding playlists for its relatable narrative of lifelong partnership.^[111] In the 2020s, viral TikTok trends amplified songs like Ed Sheeran's "Perfect" (2017), where users recreate proposal scenes synced to its orchestral build-up, highlighting themes of destined love and acceptance, contributing to over a billion streams on platforms like Spotify.^[112] Theater has long incorporated proposals as comedic or dramatic devices, notably in Anton Chekhov's 1888-1889 one-act farce A Marriage Proposal, where a hypochondriac suitor's awkward attempt spirals into absurd arguments over property and health, satirizing societal pressures on matrimony while underscoring the chaos of emotional commitment.^[113] Adaptations of this play, performed worldwide since its 1890 debut, continue to emphasize performative tension in proposal scenes, influencing modern stage works that blend humor with relational introspection.^[114] In video games, proposals feature as interactive mechanics that simulate real-life romance, allowing players to build relationships leading to engagement. The Sims series, starting with The Sims (2000), includes proposal options where Sims can present rings after achieving high romantic bonds, often resulting in elopements or ceremonies that reflect player-driven narratives of commitment; this mechanic has evolved across expansions like The Sims 4: My Wedding Stories (2022), adding customizable traditions and rejection risks for deeper emotional simulation.^[115] Digital media has popularized user-generated proposal content, with YouTube vlogs surging in the 2010s as couples shared elaborate setups, from flash mobs to scenic surprises, peaking in viewership during the 2020 pandemic when searches for "I Proposed" videos rose sharply, fostering a cultural trend of public vulnerability and communal celebration.^[116] This format often incorporates custom songs tailored to personal stories, where services create personalized tracks in genres like pop or acoustic for the moment, enhancing emotional impact at weddings and engagements.^[110] Podcasts dedicated to proposal narratives have emerged as a medium for sharing intimate stories, such as The Proposal Podcast hosted by engagement planner Ash Fox since 2019, which features episodes on planning, ring selection, and real-life tales of acceptance or mishaps, drawing from thousands of couples' experiences to offer practical insights into the emotional and logistical aspects of proposing.^[117] These auditory formats highlight themes of rejection and resilience, providing listeners with relatable explorations of commitment beyond visual media.

References

[1]
https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/proposal
[2]
proposal noun - Definition, pictures, pronunciation and usage notes
/prəˈpəʊzl/ [countable, uncountable] a formal suggestion or plan; the act of making a suggestion. to submit/present/put forward a proposal. to consider/discuss ...
[3]
7 Steps To A Winning Business Proposal - Entrepreneur
Don't forget that a proposal is a sales document, designed to persuade the client to hire your company instead of a competitor. So make certain your proposal ...
[4]
How to prepare a Research Proposal - PMC - NIH
A research proposal is a detailed description of a proposed study designed to investigate a given problem.
[5]
How to write a research proposal? - PMC - NIH
The proposal is a detailed plan or 'blueprint' for the intended study, and once it is completed, the research project should flow smoothly. Even today, many of ...
[6]
Enactment of a Law - Congress.gov Resources
A bill is a legislative proposal of a general nature. A bill may propose either a public or private matter, but both are numbered in the same sequence ...
[7]
How Our Laws Are Made - Congress.gov Resources
This online resource provides a basic outline of the numerous steps of our federal law-making process from the source of an idea for a legislative proposal ...
[8]
proposal noun - Definition, pictures, pronunciation and usage notes
/prəˈpəʊzl/ [countable, uncountable] a formal suggestion or plan; the act of making a suggestion. to submit/present/put forward a proposal. to consider/discuss ...
[9]
PROPOSAL | definition in the Cambridge English Dictionary
a suggestion for a possible plan or action: The president's proposal was to tax a percentage of Social Security benefits for high-income people.
[10]
https://dictionary.cambridge.org/us/dictionary/english/proposal
[11]
[PDF] WRITING A SUCCESSFUL PROPOSAL
Start with a summary, then describe your organization, the problem, and your work plan. Include a work plan with goals and activities.
[12]
proposition, n. meanings, etymology and more
There are 18 meanings listed in OED's entry for the noun proposition, eight of which are labelled obsolete. See 'Meaning & use' for definitions, usage, and ...
[13]
Propose - Etymology, Origin & Meaning
Originating from Old French proposer (12c.) meaning "put forward," propose combines pro ("forth") + poser ("put") and means to present or offer for ...
[14]
proposal, n. meanings, etymology and more | Oxford English ...
There are seven meanings listed in OED's entry for the noun proposal, three of which are labelled obsolete. See 'Meaning & use' for definitions, usage, and ...
[15]
Renaissance diplomacy: Compromise as a solution to conflict - Diplo
Later on, in the 16th century, the concept of marriage diplomacy developed, not so much in Italy as in the rest of Europe. The complexity of marriage ...
[16]
Proposal Traditions | Paullett Golden Romance
Jul 31, 2022 · The proposal was an offer of marriage, not a question. The "will you marry me" question is, much like the bended knee, a modern tradition. " ...Missing: 16th- diplomatic
[17]
A Brief History of Business Plan
Aug 31, 2025 · The 19th century. During the 1800s, business plan competitions began. You might call it an early version of crowdsourcing. Industry leaders ...Missing: era | Show results with:era
[18]
Rival Strategies for Reforming the Early Royal Society - NASA ADS
... proposals for reforming the Royal Society that he devised at that time. ... Proposals concerning Experiments”. The attribution to Neile is based on the ...<|separator|>
[19]
Changing academic grant writing practices (1955-2005)
Our content analysis thus shows an increasing tendency towards the standardization and rationalization of application guidelines and proposals from 1955 to 2005 ...
[20]
[PDF] A Brief History of Standards and Standardization Organizations
The standardization system formed in the twentieth century was comprised of the private, national, regional and international standardizations. It reflected ...
[21]
How Did the Tradition of Wedding Rings Start? - Britannica
Sep 17, 2025 · The Romans are also thought to have originated the custom of betrothal rings, or engagement rings, symbolizing a promise of marriage to a member ...
[22]
Rules of engagement: A content analysis of accepted and rejected ...
Dec 4, 2020 · Little research exists concerning the Western marriage proposal ritual, and rejected proposals are particularly understudied.Missing: variations credible sources
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The History and Meaning of Proposing on One Knee - Brides
May 13, 2024 · The tradition of a man (or woman) proposing on one knee comes from medieval knights bowing before noblewomen as a show of respect. That said, ...
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[PDF] Excerpted from - University of California Press
Archduke Maximillian of Austria supposedly gave the first diamond engagement ring to Mary of Burgundy in 1477.
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The Origin of Wedding Rings: Ancient Tradition or ... - GIA 4Cs
May 8, 2020 · The origin of wedding rings and tradition of exchanging rings dates back 3000 years. Why are rings, especially diamond rings, symbols of ...
[26]
Wooing and Wedding: Courtship and Marriage in Early Modern ...
Jun 8, 2018 · In Medieval England, marriages were often arranged—although mutual consent was generally desirable—and focused on kinship bonds and a ...
[27]
Arranged Marriages, Matchmakers, and Dowries in India
Jun 20, 2014 · Arranged marriages have been part of the Indian culture since the fourth century. Many consider the practice a central fabric of Indian society.
[28]
How to Plan An Unforgettable Flash Mob Proposal - The Knot
Aug 21, 2023 · Today, flash mob dances continue to take place, typically in public spaces. Flash mobs can be planned and executed for any number of reasons— ...
[29]
New Psychological Research Teaches Us How To Not Mess Up A ...
Oct 19, 2022 · A new study published in the Journal of Family Psychology analyzed more than 300 accepted and rejected wedding proposals to understand what makes for a great ...
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6 Reasons Marriage Proposals Get Rejected - Psychology Today
Jul 31, 2021 · Of the proposals that were rejected, 40% of the couples had never even discussed marriage. The couple never even dated before the proposal.
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Who Keeps the Engagement Ring? - No Fault Rule - Romano Law
Apr 11, 2014 · The Run-of-the-Mill Jilting. A typical marriage proposal has three elements of a legally binding contract: offer, acceptance and consideration.Missing: implications | Show results with:implications
[32]
Marriage - breach of promise to marry
In almost half of the states courts allow a lawsuit for breach of the promise to marry. This claim is based on the idea that an engagement creates an ...<|control11|><|separator|>
[33]
Friendship Relationships – Connecting and Relating
Fehr found many factors that impact the possibility for two people to become friends; these include environmental, situational, individual, and dyadic factors.
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Chapter 10: Friendship Relationships – Interpersonal Communication
Friendships are based out of an individual's free will to choose whom they want to initiate a friendship relationship with.
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Psychology of affiliation and friendship | Research Starters - EBSCO
Friendship begins as a relationship of social exchange. Exchange relationships involve giving and returning favors and other resources, with a short-term ...Missing: proposals | Show results with:proposals
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Culture and the role of exchange vs. communal norms in friendship
We found that Indians give greater emphasis to communal norms in friend relationships than Americans do, with this effect unrelated to socioeconomic status.
[37]
The pain of social rejection - American Psychological Association
Social rejection increases anger, anxiety, depression, jealousy and sadness. It reduces performance on difficult intellectual tasks, and can also contribute to ...
[38]
Forming trusting friendships from adolescence to adulthood
Sep 25, 2024 · This study qualitatively explored how people experience the process of forming trust in friends from early adolescence to adulthood.
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Friendship as a Context for Building Social Skills - PubMed Central
The proposal that friendships provide a context for the development of social skills is widely accepted. Yet little research exists to support these claims.
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Chapter 4: Social Media and Friendships - Pew Research Center
Aug 6, 2015 · Nearly two-thirds (64%) of teens who have made a new friend online say they have met new friends on a social media platform. Two-thirds (62%) of ...
[41]
Friendship: The Laws of Attraction | Psychology Today
Nov 1, 2006 · Hefty helpings of emotional expressiveness and unconditional support are ingredients here, followed by acceptance, loyalty, and trust.Missing: initiation | Show results with:initiation
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Chapter 14: Preparing Business Proposals - myText CNM
A business proposal is a statement that is meant to persuade the reader to consider a new work related concept or a change in a work procedure.
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How to Write a Business Proposal for Small Businesses - Salesforce
May 15, 2024 · Key components of a successful business proposal · Cover page and introduction: · Executive summary: · Problem statement: · Implementation plan and ...
[44]
What to Include in a Business Proposal
Oct 20, 2023 · How do you format a business proposal? · Title page · Table of contents · Executive summary · Statement of problem, issue, or job at hand · Approach ...How Do You Format A Business... · What To Include In A... · Business Proposal Tips And...
[45]
How To Write a Business Proposal: Components, Steps and Tips
Jun 6, 2025 · Components of a business proposal · Introduction · Statement of the problem or need · Summary and table of contents · Project details · Agreement.
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How to Calculate ROI to Justify a Project - HBS Online
May 12, 2020 · To calculate the expected return on investment, you would divide the net profit by the cost of the investment, and multiply that number by 100.
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APMP Best Practice 101: How to Write Persuasively in Bids and ...
May 14, 2024 · Introduction – Inform the reader of the purpose of the proposal, outline the approach, establish credibility and summarize what's to come.
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History of the RFP | Responsive
Mar 7, 2025 · Before RFPs, businesses used peer recommendations. In the late 1880s, newspaper notices were used. By the 1960s, complex proposals were created ...Missing: pitches | Show results with:pitches
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The Difference Between Solicited and Unsolicited Business Proposals
May 24, 2016 · Solicited business proposals are done in response to a customer's need, while unsolicited proposals are used to advertise to potential customers.
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What's the Difference Between Solicited and Unsolicited Proposals?
An unsolicited proposal is when you send them a proposal they haven't even asked for because you think they should buy from you or take some action.
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https://writing.wisc.edu/handbook/grants/
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Grant Proposals (or Give me the money!) - UNC Writing Center
The introduction should cover the key elements of your proposal, including a statement of the problem, the purpose of research, research goals or objectives, ...
[53]
15 Key Components of a Winning Grant Proposal - Instrumentl
Nov 20, 2023 · A strong grant proposal includes a compelling executive summary, a detailed needs statement, clear goals and objectives, a thorough project ...
[54]
Planning and Writing a Grant Proposal: The Basics
Common Elements of Grant Proposals ; Description of. Your Project (a.k.a. “project narrative”; “project goals, objectives, and methodology”; or “strategies andOverview · Considering the Audience... · Common Elements of Grant...
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Basic Elements of a Grant Proposal | Colgate University
Summary or Abstract · Who is making the application · Need or problem being addressed · Objectives · Methods · Costs ...
[56]
Fundamental Principles of Writing a Successful Grant Proposal - PMC
In this paper, we present the key elements to a successful grant proposal to help potential applicants to navigate the complex pathways in the grant application ...
[57]
NIFA Peer Review Process for Competitive Grant Applications
Jul 9, 2025 · The review process begins with the publication of the Request for Applications (RFA) for the NIFA competitive program of interest. The RFA is ...
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First Level: Peer Review - NIH Grants & Funding
Sep 9, 2024 · Before the meeting, assigned reviewers will read each application thoroughly, write a critique summarizing the strengths and weaknesses of the ...Background · Who Reviews Your Application? · Peer Review Criteria and...
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Grant Writing Best Practices: Is a Peer Review Really Necessary?
Jul 18, 2024 · Seasoned grant writers know that planning for a peer review is essential. The impact of a review on the success of the grant proposal cannot be overstated.
[60]
Foundation vs Government Grants: Which Should You Pursue?
Feb 16, 2024 · Private foundation grants are preferred by grant writers due to their easier and less time-consuming application process, typically requiring 15 ...
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Government vs. Foundation Grants - The Grantsmanship Center
The decision is about whether to put more effort into public / government funding vs. private foundation grant-making.
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Success Rates - NIH RePORTER
Research Project Grants: Competing applications, awards, success rates, and funding, by type, Institute/Center, and activity code (~455KB)
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Overview of the NSF Proposal and Award Process - Funding at NSF
All proposals submitted to NSF are reviewed using two merit review criteria: intellectual merit and broader impacts. Proposals involving high-risk, high-payoff ...
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The National Science Foundation: A Brief History - About NSF
It provides a prologue to post-World War II activities. Significantly, the work was sponsored in 1956 by the American Academy of Arts and Sciences under a grant ...Preface · Chapter I: The Past is Prologue · Chapter III: From Sputnik...
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NSF and postwar US science - Physics Today
May 1, 2020 · The story of NSF's creation and early years of operation serves as an important window into the growth of postwar federal science policy.
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History - About NSF | NSF - National Science Foundation
NSF awards its first grants to the National Radio Astronomy Observatory and to what would become the Kitt Peak National Observatory. Construction begins on ...Why was NSF formed? · How has NSF changed? · NSF's history and impacts: a...
[67]
How laws are made - USAGov
Nov 5, 2024 · A bill is a proposal for a new law or a change to an existing law. The idea for a bill can come from a sitting member of the U.S. Senate or ...
[68]
Types of Legislation - U.S. Senate
The vast majority of legislative proposals are in the form of bills. Bills deal with domestic and foreign issues and programs, and they also appropriate money ...
[69]
HOLC Guide to Legislative Drafting
This online guide is to provide an overview of the drafting style and conventions used by the House Office of the Legislative Counsel.
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https://www.congress.gov/legislative-process
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The Legislative Process: Overview (Video) | Congress.gov
Examples: hr5, h.r.5, sjres8, sa2, pl116-21, 86Stat1326. Tip. Legislative Actions. Any Legislative Action, Introduced (Bills and Resolutions), Committee or ...
[72]
Magna Carta Legacy | National Archives
Dec 4, 2019 · Magna Carta was the result of the Angevin king's disastrous foreign policy and overzealous financial administration.
[73]
The Affordable Care Act 101 - KFF
Oct 8, 2025 · On March 23, 2010, President Obama signed the Affordable Care Act (ACA) into law, marking a significant overhaul of the U.S. health care ...
[74]
President's Budget | Congressional Budget Office
Each year, CBO estimates the effects of the President's budgetary proposals using the agency's economic projections and estimating approaches.
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Legislative Process | California State Senate
These ideas can come from anybody and the process begins when either an individual or group persuades a Member of the Legislature to author a bill.
[76]
Resource Initiative and Referendum Processes
The initiative process enables citizens to bypass their state legislature by placing proposed statutes and, in some states, constitutional amendments on the ...
[77]
What are ballot propositions and how many are on the ballot in 2022?
Nov 3, 2022 · Twenty-six states allow citizens to petition for and vote on laws and amendments.
[78]
Proposition 13: 40 Years Later - Public Policy Institute of California
This year marks the 40th anniversary of Proposition 13—the landmark citizens' initiative that limits the property tax rate to 1% of assessed value at the time ...
[79]
[PDF] The Educative Effects of Direct Democracy: A Research Primer for ...
TOLBERT,** AND DANIEL C. BOWEN***. This article surveys recent studies by political scientists that examine the "educative effects" of ballot measures ...
[80]
[PDF] Direct Democracy - International IDEA
Referendums give the people a direct vote, which may be binding or advisory, on a specific political, constitutional or legislative issue that is referred to ...
[81]
Recent insights on direct democracy: Arguments, drivers, effects and ...
Jun 27, 2025 · It is often seen as a means to reduce democratic deficits, enhance citizen participation, and legitimize political decisions. This study reviews ...
[82]
Dissertation Proposal | Stanford Graduate School of Education
The dissertation proposal is a comprehensive statement on the extent and nature of the student's dissertation research interests.<|control11|><|separator|>
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Thesis Proposal : EECS Communication Lab
Structure Diagram The main components of a thesis proposal are: title and abstract, introduction that motivates the proposed work,
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How to write a thesis proposal
II. Structure of a thesis proposal. Your thesis proposal should have the following elements in this order. Title page. Abstract.Framework · II. Structure of a thesis proposal · III. Order in which to write the...
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Thesis Proposals: Common Elements - Graduate Writing Center
Context, issue, and research question. What problem are you responding to? What is your research question? ; Significance. Why is the research you propose worth ...
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Introduction - Writing a Dissertation or Thesis Proposal
Sep 11, 2025 · The proposal, sometimes called the prospectus, is composed mainly of the Introduction, Research Questions, Literature Review, Research ...
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[PDF] Thesis Proposal Guidelines
Jul 12, 2017 · o When crafting your aims, use specific terms such as “identify,” “define,” “determine,” or. “ascertain” rather than more passive terms such as ...
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Thesis Proposal Exam - Chemical Engineering
The examination consists of the preparation of a written research proposal and an oral presentation and defense of the same before the Thesis Proposal ...
[89]
Dissertation Proposal Defense | W&M School of Education
The purpose of the dissertation proposal defense meeting is to assess the merits of the proposed research and the ability of the doctoral candidate to conduct ...Missing: thesis | Show results with:thesis
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Features of a research proposal - Student Academic Success
The elements outlined below are applicable to proposals for studies situated in the humanities and those situated in STEM fields but there may be different ...
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Thesis structures - Student Academic Success - Monash University
Here are some common patterns of thesis structure in broad disciplinary groupings. STEM disciplines.
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The Thesis Process | Harvard Extension School
Thesis proposals typically include approximately 15 to 20 pages of text, in addition to any required reference sections, such as bibliographies and glossary/ ...
[93]
How to Create a Project Scope Management Plan
Dec 8, 2020 · Left unchecked, scope creep can lead to missed deadlines, blown budgets, and the delivery of a finished project that does not match the outlined ...Missing: challenges thesis<|separator|>
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The Proposal | Rotten Tomatoes
Rating 45% (191) Discover reviews, ratings, and trailers for The Proposal on Rotten Tomatoes. Stay updated with critic and audience scores today!191 Reviews · Cast and Crew · Trailers & Videos · 250000+ Ratings
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The Proposal (2009) - Plot - IMDb
When Margaret, a Canadian, faces deportation for an expired visa, she hatches a scheme to marry Andrew, and he agrees if she will promise him a promotion.
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The Proposal - Box Office Mojo
Release DateJun 19, 2009 - Nov 5, 2009. MPAAPG-13. Running Time1 hr 48 min. GenresComedy Drama Romance. Widest Release3,158 theaters. IMDbPro See more details ...
[97]
Ironiya lyubvi (2010) - IMDb
Rating 4.6/10 (328) Details · Release date · March 25, 2010 (Kazakhstan) · Countries of origin. Russia · Kazakhstan · Language. Russian · Also known as. Soblaznit neudachnika.
[98]
An Unfinished Film (Short 2021) - IMDb
An Unfinished Film: Directed by Yi-Chiang Lin. A feature-film shoot was temporarily put on hold due to the seemingly never ending pandemic.Missing: Proposal | Show results with:Proposal
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The Proposal (2017) • Reviews, film + cast - Letterboxd
On a boat in an idyllic setting, Joachim goes down on one knee to propose to Toril, the love of his life. Toril has other thoughts about their relationship.
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A genre reborn: Inside the evolution of the rom-com | CNN
Aug 29, 2021 · Decades later, Woody Allen's landmark 1977 film “Annie Hall” explored similar themes of romance and couple formation even though (spoiler alert) ...
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The evolution of rom-coms - The Pace Press
Feb 8, 2019 · In the 1930s, the term “screwball comedy” was used for romantic comedies that featured strong female leads and stories about the battle of the ...<|control11|><|separator|>
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[PDF] The Marriage Proposal in the Nineteenth-Century British Novel
This thesis closely analyzes the proposal scenes in several nineteenth-century. British novels, focusing on the eruptions that occur during the proposal moment ...<|separator|>
[103]
[PDF] Investigating Marriage Proposals in Jane Austen s Pride and Prejudice
Darcy's final proposal to Elizabeth Bennet. The analysis is based on Marwell and Schmitt (1967)'s theory of compliance-gaining strategies and Jacks and Cameron ...
[104]
Pride & Prejudice and the Purpose of Marriage | Forbes and Fifth
In Pride and Prejudice, Jane Austen uses satire, characterization, and narrative voice to explore the vocational nature of marriage for women in her society.
[105]
Critical Analysis of Anton Chekhov's "The Proposal" - eNotes.com
Summary: Anton Chekhov's "The Proposal" is a satirical one-act play that critiques the institution of marriage in 19th-century Russia, highlighting how ...
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Anton Chekhov's 'The Marriage Proposal' One-Act Play - ThoughtCo
Mar 20, 2018 · The play features funny characters like Ivan, who nervously tries to propose to Natalya. Despite many arguments, Ivan and Natalya get engaged, ...
[107]
'The Proposal' Knocks It Out Of The Park - NPR
Oct 30, 2018 · Rollicking, charming, and infinitely zesty, The Proposal packs all the feel-good punch of a rom-com, with a weighty kick of gravitas around ...
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THE PROPOSAL - Kirkus Reviews
Anyone who believes in true love or is simply willing to accept it as the premise of a winding tale will find this debut an emotional, satisfying read. Like ...<|separator|>
[109]
How Do I Love Thee? (Sonnet 43) - Poets.org
How do I love thee? Let me count the ways. I love thee to the depth and breadth and height. My soul can reach, when feeling out of sight
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Elizabeth Barrett Browning: “Sonnets from the Portuguese 28”
Apr 1, 2010 · Elizabeth Barrett Browning's exciting and excited sonnet takes part in the centuries-old tradition of amorous sonnets and sonnet sequences ...
[111]
13 Proposals and Performative Utterance in the Nineteenth-Century ...
Jan 24, 2013 · This chapter examines the ubiquitous plot device of the marriage proposal. It argues that the marriage plot provides resolution in the novel of ...
[112]
[PDF] How does a 19th century heroine accept a proposal of marriage?
Seven heroines, and several minor characters, accept marriage proposals in six novels; and we never hear what words a single one of them uses to do so. Indeed, ...
[113]
The 40 Best Proposal Songs of All Time | DJ-Approved Playlist
Some great proposal songs include "Just the Way You Are" by Bruno Mars, "All of Me" by John Legend, "Marry Me" by Jason Derulo, and "Thinking Out Loud" by Ed ...
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23 Proposal Songs That Will Pretty Much Guarantee a “Yes!”
Jul 24, 2020 · Here are some of the top proposal songs to play as you pop the question. · “Marry You” by Bruno Mars · “True Companion” by Marc Cohn.
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Top 40 TikTok Wedding Songs in 2025 - FixTheMusic
Oct 3, 2025 · Discover the 40 TikTok-driven wedding songs couples are requesting most in 2025. Complete with playlist links and wedding-moment tips.
[116]
The Proposal - Dramatists Play Service
The Proposal portrays a nervous young farmer who comes to propose to his neighbor's daughter. Instead of making the proposal, the two young people get involved ...
[117]
The Proposal - Nick Hern Books
The Proposal; A brilliantly funny one-act play about a hypochondriac attempting to propose to an argumentative young woman.
[118]
Sims 4 My Wedding Stories: Guide To Events And Activities
Mar 7, 2022 · In this guide, we take a look at all the new activities, which events include them, and what each one involves.New Wedding Events In My... · New Wedding Traditions And... · Wedding Activities Explained
[119]
YouTube Couples Like #RonRon And #Snick Are Going Viral By ...
Apr 14, 2022 · YouTube searches for videos titled “I Proposed” spiked early in the pandemic, in May 2020, higher than they'd been in five years, according to ...
[120]
The Proposal Podcast - Ash Fox Photography
The Proposal Podcast, hosted by Ash Fox, is a guide for proposal and engagement, offering help with rings, budgets, and expert advice. It also provides helpful ...