Synonym Nuance VS
How to say "Plan" in Japanese
Both words can translate to "plan", but which should you choose?
Japanese Option A
図る
はかる (hakaru)
N2 / CEFR Syllabus
VS
Japanese Option B
目論む
もくろむ (mokuromu)
N2 / CEFR Syllabus
Nuance Contrast & Translation Difference
When translating "plan" into Japanese, you must choose carefully between 図る and 目論む.
In Japanese, 図る (はかる (hakaru)) is typically associated with "to plan, to attempt, to devise, to seek, to aim for (e.g., efficiency, success)" (Syllabus Level: N2) and represents Used for planning or aiming to achieve something, often positive outcomes like efficiency, improvement, or success. Also, implies making an effort or devising a scheme. 効率化、改善、成功など、何かを達成するために計画したり、目標としたり、工夫したりする際に使われます。.
On the other hand, 目論む (もくろむ (mokuromu)) maps to "to plan, to scheme, to contemplate (often with ambition or a slightly negative/secretive nuance)" (Syllabus Level: N2) and represents Implies a grand, ambitious, or sometimes secretive plan. It can carry a slightly negative connotation, suggesting scheming or plotting, but is also used for neutral ambitious plans.. A literal translation of "plan" can often sound unnatural to native Japanese speakers if mixed up!
Bilingual Context for "図る"
会社はコスト削減を図るため、新しいシステムを導入した。
The company introduced a new system to aim for cost reduction.
Bilingual Context for "目論む"
彼は新しい事業を目論んでいる。
He is planning a new business venture.
Nuance Mastery Quiz
Which Japanese word perfectly fits this blank space?
Fill in the blank: "会社はコスト削減を ＿＿＿ ため、新しいシステムを導入した。" (Meaning: "The company introduced a new system to aim for cost reduction.")
🎉 Correct Answer!
Remember: "図る" fits here because it means "to plan, to attempt, to devise, to seek, to aim for (e.g., efficiency, success)" in the context of: "The company introduced a new system to aim for cost reduction.". "目論む" represents "to plan, to scheme, to contemplate (often with ambition or a slightly negative/secretive nuance)".