Strategy: meaning, definitions and examples

Used when discussing a comprehensive plan or set of actions to achieve a long-term goal. It often involves high-level decision-making and is broad in scope.

• Their strategy for entering the Asian market proved successful.
• We need to develop a strategy to improve our customer service.

Focuses on a detailed proposal or roadmap outlining steps to achieve a specific goal. It is typically more detailed than a strategy and may include timelines and resources.

• The project manager presented a detailed plan for the new initiative.
• We need a plan to increase our sales by the end of the quarter.

Used for actions or steps that are part of a larger strategy, often short-term and focused on specific tasks or problems. It implies a more immediate and smaller-scale action.

• Their tactic to gain more followers involved daily social media posts.
• We need to change our tactics to win this game.

Refers to the way one handles a situation or tackles a problem. It is often more flexible and can be about general procedures or attitudes towards dealing with a task.

• Her approach to solving the issue was creative and effective.
• We need to rethink our approach to product development.

Indicates a specific technique or systematic procedure used to accomplish a task. It is more concrete and detailed compared to 'approach'.

• The method they used to test the software was thorough.
• Please explain the method you followed to reach this conclusion.

Used when discussing a long-term plan or approach, usually in business, military, or game contexts.

• Our company's strategy for expansion includes opening new offices in Asia.
• The general outlined his strategy for the upcoming battle.

Used for short-term actions or plans used to achieve a particular aim, often in military or competitive situations.

• His tactics on the basketball court helped the team win the game.
• The commander discussed the tactics for the upcoming mission with his officers.

Used when describing movements or actions designed to achieve a specific goal, often in military, sports, or driving scenarios.

• The pilot performed complex maneuvers during the airshow.
• The army conducted night maneuvers to prepare for the mission.

Refers to organized actions conducted to achieve a specific purpose, commonly used in military, medical, or business settings.

• The rescue operations after the earthquake were intense and well-coordinated.
• He is in charge of operations at the new factory.

Use 'strategy' when referring to a high-level plan designed to achieve long-term goals, often used in business, military, or competitive contexts.

• The company's strategy for expanding into new markets has proven successful

A 'plan' is a detailed proposal or layout for achieving specific, usually shorter-term goals. It can be used in various contexts, including personal, professional, and logistical matters.

• We need to create a detailed plan for the team's upcoming project

The word 'scheme' often implies a secret or dishonest plan, although it can also refer to a formally organized plan in British English, where it does not carry a negative connotation.

• The government announced a new scheme to provide affordable housing

Use 'tactics' when referring to specific actions or steps taken to achieve a short-term goal, often within the framework of a larger strategy. This term is frequently used in military and competitive scenarios.

• Our marketing tactics have been very effective in increasing brand awareness