Proposavas

Proposavas is a term used in theoretical linguistics and discourse analysis to describe a class of utterances that simultaneously propose a course of action and attach normative or institutional weight to its adoption. In typical use, a proposava not only suggests what should be done but also signals the speaker's endorsement and often offers to facilitate or defend the proposed action.

Key features include explicit reference to a future action, normative force aimed at mobilizing agreement, and a built-in expectation that listeners will evaluate and respond with acceptance or modification. Proposavas can occur in political debates, corporate meetings, and collaborative projects, and may take the form of policy recommendations, project plans, or strategic bids. They are distinguished from simple propositions by their performative aim and from pure directives by including an attested commitment to the proposed course.

Examples: "We should implement the new data-security protocol by Q2," and "I propose that the council adopt the revised budget with the following amendments." Both utterances put forward a recommendation and imply the speaker's willingness to help realize it, thereby functioning as proposavas in appropriate contexts.

Relation to theory: Proposavas sit at the intersection of propositional content and illocutionary force, sharing aspects with commissives and directives but defined by the combined action of proposing and committing. Critiques focus on issues of power, clarity, and context-dependence, since the perceived weight of a proposava varies with audience, authority, and procedure.

Notes: The term is not universally adopted and its boundaries differ across disciplines.