Translation and Meaning of: 提案 - teian

The Japanese word 提案[ていあん] is an essential term for anyone looking to understand the dynamics of formal and professional communication in Japan. If you've ever wondered how the Japanese present ideas, suggestions, or plans in meetings, this vocabulary is the key to deciphering this context. In this article, we will explore its meaning, everyday use, and even tips for memorizing it effectively.

In addition to being frequently used in corporate environments, 提案 also reflects important cultural aspects of Japanese society, such as the value placed on collaboration and consensus. Whether for Japanese language students or those curious about the language, understanding this word can open doors to a deeper comprehension of the language and the Japanese mindset.

The meaning and use of 提案 in everyday life

提案 is translated as "proposal" or "suggestion," but its meaning goes beyond a simple idea. In Japan, it carries the nuance of a structured recommendation, often accompanied by justifications and clear objectives. Companies and institutions use this term to formalize plans, from internal projects to business strategies.

An interesting detail is that 提案 is not limited to the professional environment. It can appear in academic, community, or even family discussions when there is a need to present a well-founded solution. The word implies a certain level of preparation, differing from more informal suggestions like アドバイス (advice) or 意見 (opinion).

The origin and composition of the kanjis 提案

The etymology of 提案 reveals much about its meaning. The first kanji, 提, carries the idea of "presenting" or "lifting something," while 案 refers to "plan" or "scheme." Together, they form the concept of "presenting a plan," which explains why the word is so commonly used in contexts that require structure and clarity.

It is worth noting that 提 is a common character in other terms related to proposals, such as 提出 (to submit a document) or 提携 (collaboration). On the other hand, 案 appears in words like 案内 (guide) or 原案 (draft). This combination is not random – it reflects the importance that Japanese culture places on preparation and organization when presenting ideas.

Tips for memorizing and using 提案 correctly

An effective way to fix 提案 in memory is to associate it with concrete situations. Imagine yourself in a work meeting where someone says: "What do you think about this proposal?" This type of contextualization helps to memorize not only the word but also its practical use.

Another strategy is to pay attention to how 提案 appears in corporate dramas or news about business in Japan. Repeated exposure to real situations (even if fictional) solidifies learning. And for those who like flashcards, creating cards with phrases like "新しいプロジェクトを提案する" (to propose a new project) can be quite useful.

Remember: in Japanese, the verb associated with 提案 is 提案する, used when someone is actively making a suggestion. This construction is more formal than alternatives like 言う (to say) or 教える (to teach), reinforcing the professional tone of the word.

Vocabulary

Expand your vocabulary with related words:

Synonyms and similar words

• 提案 (Teian) - Proposal, suggestion
• アイデア (Aidea) - Idea, concept, with a focus on creativity
• 提言 (Teigen) - Formal suggestion, recommendation, usually in the context of policies.
• 提起 (Teiki) - Raise, bring to light (a subject, issue)
• 提出 (Teishutsu) - Presentation (of a document or proposal) for consideration
• 提供 (Teikyou) - Provision, offer of something to someone
• 提唱 (Teishou) - Proclamation or proposal of a new concept or idea
• 提案する (Teian suru) - Make a proposal or suggestion

提案

Romaji: teian
Kana: ていあん
Type: noun
L: jlpt-n3

Translation / Meaning: proposal; proposition; suggestion

Meaning in English: proposal;proposition;suggestion

Definition: To present an offer or opinion.

Example Sentences - (提案) teian

See below some example sentences:

その提案は否決されました。

Sono teian wa hiketsu sare mashita

This proposal was rejected.

The proposal was rejected.

• その (sono) - demonstrative pronoun that means "that one" or "that"
• 提案 (teian) - noun meaning "proposal" or "suggestion"
• は (wa) - topic particle that indicates that the subject of the sentence is "this proposal"
• 否決 (hiketsu) - noun that means "rejection" or "vote against"
• されました (saremashita) - passive verb in the polite form indicating that "the proposal was rejected"

私は新しい提案を考えています。

Watashi wa atarashii teian o kangaeteimasu

I'm thinking of a new proposal.

• 私 (watashi) - Japanese personal pronoun that means "I"
• は (wa) - Japanese particle that indicates the topic of the sentence, in this case, "I"
• 新しい (atarashii) - 新しい (atarashii)
• 提案 (teian) - Japanese noun meaning "proposal"
• を (wo) - Japanese particle that indicates the direct object of the action, in this case, "proposal"
• 考えています (kangaeteimasu) - Japanese verb meaning "I'm thinking"