Synonym Nuance VS
How to say "Plan" in Japanese
Both words can translate to "plan", but which should you choose?
Japanese Option A
目論見
もくろみ (mokurami)
N2 / CEFR Syllabus
VS
Japanese Option B
図る
はかる (hakaru)
N2 / CEFR Syllabus
Nuance Contrast & Translation Difference
When translating "plan" into Japanese, you must choose carefully between 目論見 and 図る.
In Japanese, 目論見 (もくろみ (mokurami)) is typically associated with "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。.
On the other hand, 図る (はかる (hakaru)) maps to "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。. A literal translation of "plan" can often sound unnatural to native Japanese speakers if mixed up!
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.
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.
Nuance Mastery Quiz
Which Japanese word perfectly fits this blank space?
Fill in the blank: "彼の会社買収の ＿＿＿ は失敗に終わった。" (Meaning: "His plan to acquire the company ended in failure.")
🎉 Correct Answer!
Remember: "目論見" fits here because it means "plan, scheme, project, intention" in the context of: "His plan to acquire the company ended in failure.". "図る" represents "to plan, to attempt, to devise, to seek, to aim for (e.g., efficiency, success)".