Prōp'o·sī'tion, n.
(-zish'un), n. [Lat. propositio, Fr. proposition, Pr. propozicio, Sp. proposición, It. proposizione.] 1. The act of setting or placing before; the act of offering. It also causes that nothing spring there but gums fit for incense and oblations for the altar of proposition. Sp. Taylor.
- That which is proposed; that which is offered, as for consideration, acceptance, or adoption; a proposal; offer of terms; as, the enemy made propositions of peace; the propositions were not accepted.
- Especially, that which is proposed in religious doctrine; creed. [Obs.]
There are some persons whose religion is hugely disgraced because they change their propositions according as their temporal necessities or advantages do return. Sp. Taylor.
- (Gram. & Logic.) A complete sentence; a thought expressed or propounded in language; a subject and predicate united by a copula; a form of speech in which a predicate is affirmed or denied of a subject; as, snow is white.
- (Math.) A statement in terms either of a truth to be demonstrated or of an operation to be performed.
It is called a theorem when it is something to be proved, and a problem when it is something to be done.
- (Rhet.) That which is offered or affirmed as the subject of the discourse; any thing stated or affirmed for discussion or illustration.
- (Poet.) The first part of a poem, in which the author states the subject or matter of it.
Syn.—Proposal; offer; statement; declaration.—PROPOSITION, PROPOSAL. These words are both from the Latin verb proponere, to set forth, and, as here compared, they mark different forms or stages of a negotiation. A proposition is something presented for discussion or consideration; as, propositions of peace. A proposal is some definite thing offered by one party to be accepted or rejected by the other. If the proposition is favorably received, it is usually followed by proposals which complete the arrangement. “The enemy sent propositions, such as upon delivery of a strong, fortified town, after a handsome defense, are usually granted.” Clarendon. If our proposals once again were heard, We should compel them to a quick result. Milton.