proposition

What does “proposition” mean?

noun.a statement or assertion that expresses a judgment or opinion.

SAT Usage

this term commonly appears in passages discussing philosophy, politics, or logic, often related to arguments or theories. It emphasizes the formal nature of a claim that invites debate or analysis, distinguishing it from more casual assertions or opinions by suggesting a structured basis for discussion or reasoning.

Common Confusions

Proposition implies a formal assertion meant for debate or analysis, while opinion usually suggests a personal belief or feeling that may not require justification or logical structure.

Example Sentences

• The candidate presented a clear economic proposition to voters.

Word Parts: How to Remember “proposition”

Break “proposition” into its parts: pro- (forward, in favor of) + -pos- (place, put). Knowing roots like these helps you decode unfamiliar SAT vocabulary.

• Prefix: pro- forward, in favor of (Latin)
• Root: -pos- place, put (Latin)