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
目論見
もくろみ (mokurami)
N2 / CEFR Syllabus
Nuance Contrast & Translation Difference
When translating "plan" into Japanese, you must choose carefully between 案 and 目論見.
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, 目論見 (もくろみ (mokurami)) maps to "plan, scheme, project, intention" (Syllabus Level: N2) and represents 通常、具体的な行動を伴う計画や企みを指します。成功を期待するが、結果は不確定なニュアンスも含むことがあります。. 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 "目論見"
彼の会社買収の目論見は失敗に終わった。
His plan to acquire the company ended in failure.
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.". "目論見" represents "plan, scheme, project, intention".