Synonym Nuance VS
How to say "Plan" in Japanese
Both words can translate to "plan", but which should you choose?
Japanese Option A
案
あん (an)
N3 / 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 案 and 目論む.
In Japanese, 案 (あん (an)) is typically associated with "plan, idea, proposal, draft" (Syllabus Level: N3) and represents Commonly used when discussing suggestions, drafts, or blueprints. Can also refer to a legislative bill or a scheme..
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 "案"
新しい企画の案を出す。
I will propose a new project plan.
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: "新しい企画の ＿＿＿ を出す。" (Meaning: "I will propose a new project plan.")
🎉 Correct Answer!
Remember: "案" fits here because it means "plan, idea, proposal, draft" in the context of: "I will propose a new project plan.". "目論む" represents "to plan, to scheme, to contemplate (often with ambition or a slightly negative/secretive nuance)".