Mujahid (may Allah have mercy on him) said regarding the words of Allah Almighty, "But do not make promises to them secretly" [Surah al-Baqarah: 235]: that he should not propose to the woman during the days of her waiting period, "except that you speak an honourable word" [Surah al-Baqarah: 235], that is, he may say: "You are very beautiful, you have a (high) standing, and you are desired."
Hadith Referenceالسنن الكبرى للبيهقي / كتاب النكاح / 14023