Plan: meaning, definitions and examples

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

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

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

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

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

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?

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.