Synonym Nuance VS
How to say "Plan" in Japanese
Both words can translate to "plan", but which should you choose?
Japanese Option A
計画
けいかく (keikaku)
N4 / 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 計画 and 図る.
In Japanese, 計画 (けいかく (keikaku)) is typically associated with "plan, project, schedule" (Syllabus Level: N4) and represents Can be a noun.
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 "計画"
来週の旅行の計画を立てましょう。
Let's make a plan for next week's trip.
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: "来週の旅行の ＿＿＿ を立てましょう。" (Meaning: "Let's make a plan for next week's trip.")
🎉 Correct Answer!
Remember: "計画" fits here because it means "plan, project, schedule" in the context of: "Let's make a plan for next week's trip.". "図る" represents "to plan, to attempt, to devise, to seek, to aim for (e.g., efficiency, success)".