Plan: meaning, definitions and examples

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plan

[plæn ]

Definitions

^{Context #1 | Noun}

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
plan	A general outline or detailed proposal for doing something, suitable for everyday contexts. They made a plan to meet at the park She has a plan for finishing her homework
scheme	A systematic plan of action, which can sometimes have a connotation of being secretive or deceitful. He came up with a scheme to save money on expenses Be careful with their investment scheme, it sounds too good to be true
strategy	A long-term plan aimed at achieving a particular goal, often used in business, military, or gaming contexts. Our marketing strategy helped increase our sales The general devised a strategy to defend the city
blueprint	A detailed technical drawing, often used in engineering or architecture, useful when referring to detailed and precise plans. The architect showed us the blueprint for the new building We followed the blueprint exactly to avoid any mistakes
program	A series of planned activities or events, often used in professional or educational contexts. The company launched a training program for new employees She enrolled in a graduate program to further her education

Examples of usage

She presented a detailed plan for the project.
The company's business plan outlined their goals for the next five years.

^{Context #2 | Noun}

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
plan	Used for outlining steps or actions to achieve a goal. Common in project management and personal goal setting. We need a solid plan to finish the project on time. What's your plan for the weekend?
map	Used for geographical representations to show locations, routes, and spatial information. Can also refer to conceptual mapping in strategy and planning. We used a map to find our way through the city. Let's create a mind map to organize our ideas.
layout	Describes the arrangement or positioning of items, especially in design, printing, and interior decoration. The layout of the room was carefully planned to maximize space. We need to finalize the layout for the magazine before going to print.
diagram	Used to represent information visually through charts, graphs, and other schematic forms. Common in education, technical fields, and documentation. The diagram shows how the different parts of the machine fit together. Please include a diagram to explain the process.
blueprint	Typically used in architecture and engineering to describe detailed technical drawings and designs. The architect presented the blueprint for the new building. We need to review the blueprint before construction starts.

Examples of usage

The architect created a plan of the new shopping center.
The city council reviewed the development plan for the downtown area.

^{Context #3 | Verb}

intend

To intend or have in mind a course of action.

Synonyms

aim, expect, intend, schedule.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

Word	Description / Examples
plan	Used when making detailed arrangements for future activities or tasks. We need to plan our vacation carefully. She plans to start her own business next year.
intend	Used to indicate a strong decision or resolve about something one plans to do. They intend to renovate their house next year. I intend to finish this book by the weekend.
aim	Used when talking about goals or objectives one wants to achieve. His aim is to become a successful author. The project aims to reduce carbon emissions.
expect	Used when anticipating or looking forward to something happening. I expect the package to arrive by tomorrow. She expects to get her promotion next month.
schedule	Used when arranging events or activities to take place at a specific time. The meeting is scheduled for 10 AM tomorrow. She scheduled a doctor's appointment for next week.

Examples of usage

I plan to visit my grandparents this weekend.
She planned to start her own business next year.

Interesting Facts

Etymology

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.

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.

Translations

Translations of the word "plan" in other languages:

🇵🇹 plano

🇮🇳 योजना

🇩🇪 Plan

🇮🇩 rencana

🇺🇦 план

🇵🇱 plan

🇯🇵 計画 (けいかく)

🇫🇷 plan

🇪🇸 plan

🇹🇷 plan

🇰🇷 계획 (계획)

🇸🇦 خطة

🇨🇿 plán

🇸🇰 plán

🇨🇳 计划 (jìhuà)

🇸🇮 načrt

🇮🇸 áætlun

🇰🇿 жоспар

🇬🇪 გეგმა

🇦🇿 plan

🇲🇽 plan

Word Frequency Rank

With position #406, this word is vital for basic English fluency. It appears very frequently in everyday language and should be among the first words you learn and actively use.

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403 bill
404 word
405 growth
406 plan
407 except
408 million
409 students
...