Grammar fix
float an idea
suggest tentatively
To mention an idea or plan to see how people react to it.
How oftenCommon
LevelB2
Used inSpeech & writing
Hear it in context
Notice where the phrase sounds natural.
I floated the idea of working four days a week, but nobody seemed ready for it.
When I was choosing a university, I floated the idea of studying abroad to my parents, just to see how they'd react, and my mum went very quiet.
Fix the pattern
One small grammar move makes it sound right.
Not: I floated an idea on my manager.
Say: I floated an idea past my manager.
Use 'past' or 'to' for the person whose reaction you want to test, not 'on'.
Don't confuse it
Other ways to say it
Share a plan for others to consider
How firmlyTentativelyPersuasively
float an ideaYou're here · Offer an idea tentatively to see how people react.
make a suggestionOffer an idea for someone to consider.put forwardOffer an idea for a group to discuss, often formally.pitch an ideaPresent an idea persuasively, e.g. to a boss or client.