Plan Meaning: Definition, Examples, and Translations
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plan
[plæn ]
Definitions
financial
A detailed proposal for doing or achieving something. It includes a list of steps and a timeline.
Synonyms
blueprint, program, scheme, strategy.
Which Synonym Should You Choose?
Word | Description / Examples |
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plan |
A general outline or detailed proposal for doing something, suitable for everyday contexts.
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scheme |
A systematic plan of action, which can sometimes have a connotation of being secretive or deceitful.
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strategy |
A long-term plan aimed at achieving a particular goal, often used in business, military, or gaming contexts.
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blueprint |
A detailed technical drawing, often used in engineering or architecture, useful when referring to detailed and precise plans.
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program |
A series of planned activities or events, often used in professional or educational contexts.
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Examples of usage
- She presented a detailed plan for the project.
- The company's business plan outlined their goals for the next five years.
urban
A detailed map or diagram showing the layout of a building or area.
Synonyms
blueprint, diagram, layout, map.
Which Synonym Should You Choose?
Word | Description / Examples |
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plan |
Used for outlining steps or actions to achieve a goal. Common in project management and personal goal setting.
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map |
Used for geographical representations to show locations, routes, and spatial information. Can also refer to conceptual mapping in strategy and planning.
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layout |
Describes the arrangement or positioning of items, especially in design, printing, and interior decoration.
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diagram |
Used to represent information visually through charts, graphs, and other schematic forms. Common in education, technical fields, and documentation.
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blueprint |
Typically used in architecture and engineering to describe detailed technical drawings and designs.
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Examples of usage
- The architect created a plan of the new shopping center.
- The city council reviewed the development plan for the downtown area.
intend
To intend or have in mind a course of action.
Synonyms
aim, expect, intend, schedule.
Which Synonym Should You Choose?
Word | Description / Examples |
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plan |
Used when making detailed arrangements for future activities or tasks.
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intend |
Used to indicate a strong decision or resolve about something one plans to do.
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aim |
Used when talking about goals or objectives one wants to achieve.
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expect |
Used when anticipating or looking forward to something happening.
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schedule |
Used when arranging events or activities to take place at a specific time.
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Examples of usage
- I plan to visit my grandparents this weekend.
- She planned to start her own business next year.
Translations
To see the translation, please select a language from the options available.
Interesting Facts
Psychology
- Having a written plan can significantly decrease anxiety, as it makes tasks feel more manageable.
- Studies show that people who set clear plans are 42% more likely to achieve their goals compared to those who don't.
- The practice of planning helps activate goal-oriented behavior in the brain, essentially priming it for action.
History
- The ancient Egyptians had detailed plans for their monumental pyramids, showcasing the sophisticated planning skills of the time.
- In the Renaissance, artists and architects began using detailed plans that combined art and science to design structures like cathedrals.
- During World War II, strategic military planning was crucial for winning battles, underscoring the importance of thorough preparation in critical situations.
Pop Culture
- The phrase 'Failing to plan is planning to fail' became popular in self-help literature, emphasizing the importance of having a plan.
- In the TV show 'Breaking Bad', the protagonist often uses carefully crafted plans to navigate dangerous situations, illustrating the stakes of good planning.
- Life planners are a trend among millennials, with apps and seminars dedicated to helping individuals structure every aspect of their lives.
Business
- In business, a solid business plan is often required to secure loans or investments, laying out strategies for success.
- Many successful companies invest time in strategic planning sessions to outline their goals and adapt to market changes.
- Project management methodologies like Agile encourage iterative planning, showcasing the need for flexibility in plans to adapt to changes.
Origin of 'plan'
Main points about word origin
- The word 'plan' comes from the Latin 'planus', meaning flat or level, which reflects how plans lay things out clearly.
- It was first used in English in the late 16th century, referring to a drawing or diagram, showing how things will be arranged.
- Over time, the meaning expanded to include strategies for achieving goals, not just physical layouts.
The word 'plan' originated from the Latin word 'planus', meaning flat or level. Initially, it referred to a flat, level area of ground but later evolved to signify a detailed proposal or intention. The concept of planning has been essential throughout history, from ancient civilizations organizing their societies to modern project management techniques. Today, planning is a fundamental aspect of achieving goals and success in various fields.
See also: plane, planned, planner, planners, planning, plans, replan, unplanned.