Plans Meaning: Definition, Examples, and Translations

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plans

[plรฆnz ]

Definitions

Context #1 | Noun

future

A detailed proposal for doing or achieving something in the future.

Synonyms

program, scheme, strategy.

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Word Description / Examples
plans

Discuss general intentions or arrangements, often on a smaller or personal scale.

  • We have plans to visit the museum tomorrow
  • What are your plans for the weekend?
scheme

Refers to a detailed and often large-scale plan, which can sometimes imply something secretive or underhanded.

  • The government introduced a new housing scheme to support low-income families
  • There is a scheme to improve public transportation in the city
strategy

Involves careful planning and orchestration to achieve long-term goals, often in business or military contexts.

  • Their marketing strategy aims to increase their brand's presence online
  • The general outlined his military strategy for the upcoming campaign
program

Addresses a series of planned activities or events, typically organized for a specific purpose or goal.

  • The conference program includes several keynote speakers and workshops
  • The training program helped new employees learn the company procedures

Examples of usage

  • He has big plans for his business.
  • What are your plans for the weekend?
  • We need to come up with a plan of action.
Context #2 | Noun

intention

A decision about what one is going to do.

Synonyms

aim, intention, purpose.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

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Word Description / Examples
plans

When detailing specific arrangements or strategies for the future.

  • I have plans to visit my family this weekend
  • What are your plans for the holidays?
intention

When referring to someoneโ€™s determination or resolve to act in a certain way, often without specific plans.

  • Her intention is to donate to charity more regularly
  • It was never my intention to hurt your feelings
purpose

When discussing the reason for which something is done or created, or what it is designed to achieve.

  • The purpose of this meeting is to discuss the upcoming project
  • What's the purpose of these changes?
aim

When focusing on a specific goal or objective that someone wants to achieve.

  • His aim is to become the top student in his class
  • The company's aim is to increase market share

Examples of usage

  • I have no plans to retire anytime soon.
  • Her plan is to travel the world.
Context #3 | Verb

intend

Decide on and arrange in advance.

Synonyms

arrange, intend, organize.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

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Word Description / Examples
plans

Typically used to describe a set of ideas or a schedule that someone has for something they want to do in the future. It can be used in both personal and professional contexts.

  • She has big plans for the weekend.
  • We need to make plans for the upcoming project.
intend

Used to express a purpose or plan that someone has in mind. It often conveys thought or intention behind an action.

  • I intend to finish my degree by next year.
  • She intends to travel to Europe this summer.
arrange

Used when referring to making specific preparations or putting things into a particular order. Often used in the context of events, meetings, or physical objects.

  • He arranged the chairs in a circle.
  • Can you arrange a meeting with the new client?
organize

Used when talking about putting things in order and making them neat or when coordinating people or events. It implies a higher level of structure and efficiency.

  • We need to organize the files in the cabinet.
  • She organized the event down to the last detail.

Examples of usage

  • We plan to leave early in the morning.
  • They are planning a surprise party.

Translations

To see the translation, please select a language from the options available.

Interesting Facts

Psychology

  • Making plans can significantly reduce anxiety, as it provides a clear roadmap for achieving goals.
  • Studies show that people who regularly create plans are often more successful in achieving their objectives compared to those who don't.

Business

  • Strategic planning in businesses outlines how goals will be met, based on extensive research and analysis.
  • A business plan is crucial for startups, detailing how a company intends to operate, earn money, and grow.

Education

  • In classrooms, lesson plans guide teachers on how to deliver content effectively, ensuring all important topics are covered.
  • Students are encouraged to create study plans to help them organize their time and improve academic performance.

Culture

  • Different cultures have unique ways of planning events, such as Chinese New Year celebrations, which involve extensive community organizing.
  • The concept of plans varies greatly across cultures, with some valuing flexibility and spontaneity more than strict planning.

Origin of 'plans'

Main points about word origin

  • The word 'plan' comes from the Latin word 'planum,' meaning 'flat surface' โ€“ it reflects the idea of laying out ideas on a flat surface.
  • In the 16th century, the term was used to describe architectural drawings, representing designs before they were built.

The word 'plans' originated from the Latin word 'planum', meaning flat surface or level ground. Over time, it evolved to refer to a detailed proposal or decision about the future. Planning is an essential aspect of human life, allowing individuals and organizations to set goals, strategize, and achieve success.


See also: plan, plane, planned, planner, planners, planning, replan, unplanned.

Word Frequency Rank

At #938 in the frequency ranking, this word is highly important for effective communication. It's commonly used in daily situations and should be prioritized in your vocabulary building.