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
案
あん (an)
N3 / CEFR Syllabus
Nuance Contrast & Translation Difference
When translating "plan" into Japanese, you must choose carefully between 計画 and 案.
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, 案 (あん (an)) maps to "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.. 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 "案"
新しい企画の案を出す。
I will propose a new project plan.
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.". "案" represents "plan, idea, proposal, draft".