提案をする

You usually pair this with the particle に (to someone) or について (about something). For example, 会議で新しい案を提案をする means you are proposing a new plan at a meeting. In casual speech, you might drop the を and just say 提案する. It is a very active, constructive phrase that shows initiative.

Use this in the office when you have a business strategy. Use it with friends when you are trying to solve a group conflict. It works perfectly when planning a trip and you want to suggest a destination. Even in a relationship, you can use it to suggest a new routine. It is the 'problem-solver' phrase of the Japanese language.

Do not use this for simple recommendations like a good ramen shop. For that, use おすすめ (recommendation). Also, do not use it for marriage proposals. That is a different word entirely: プロポーズ. Using 提案をする for a wedding might make it sound like a business merger! Avoid it when you are giving a direct order to someone.

In Japan, making a proposal often involves 根回し (nemawashi), or behind-the-scenes preparation. You might 'propose' something formally only after everyone has already agreed. However, the phrase 提案をする itself is the moment the idea becomes official. It reflects the value of harmony and collective progress. It is about moving the group forward together.

You will often hear ご提案 (go-teian) in very formal business settings. If you have an idea but aren't ready to 'do' the proposal yet, say 提案がある (I have a proposal). If you want to be extra polite to a client, use 提案させていただきます. This makes it sound like you are humbly offering your thoughts for their benefit.