Quadruple VS
Synonym Boundary: "計画する", "企画", "案", "目論む"
All represent the core concept "plan", but require precise selection.
Japanese Option A
計画する
けいかくする (keikaku suru)
N4 / CEFR
Japanese Option B
企画
きかく (kikaku)
N3 / CEFR
Japanese Option C
案
あん (an)
N3 / CEFR
Japanese Option D
目論む
もくろむ (mokuromu)
N2 / CEFR
Quadruple VS Nuance Contrast & Social Differences
When expressing "plan" in Japanese, you must carefully distinguish between "計画する", "企画", "案", "目論む" based on context.
- 計画する (けいかくする (keikaku suru) - Level: N4): Maps to "to plan; to scheme; to design" and is used when It's a verb meaning 'to plan', 'to schedule', or 'to design'. Often used for future actions, projects, or events. The noun form is 計画.
- 企画 (きかく (kikaku) - Level: N3): Maps to "plan, project, planning (noun/verb)" and is used when 新しい物事を計画し、実現させるための案を立てること。ビジネスやイベントなどでよく使われます。To create a plan or proposal for a new endeavor to be realized. Often used in business or for events..
- 案 (あん (an) - Level: N3): Maps to "plan, idea, proposal, draft" and is used when Commonly used when discussing suggestions, drafts, or blueprints. Can also refer to a legislative bill or a scheme..
- 目論む (もくろむ (mokuromu) - Level: N2): Maps to "to plan, to scheme, to contemplate (often with ambition or a slightly negative/secretive nuance)" and is used when 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..
Context for "計画する"
来年の旅行を計画しています。
I am planning next year's trip.
Context for "企画"
新しいイベントを企画する。
To plan a new event.
Context for "案"
新しい企画の案を出す。
I will propose a new project plan.
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.
Synonym Mastery Challenge
Which Japanese word perfectly fits this blank space?
Fill in the blank: "来年の旅行を計画しています。" (Meaning: "I am planning next year's trip.")
🎉 Correct Answer!
Remember: "計画する" is correct here because it represents "to plan; to scheme; to design" in the context: "I am planning next year's trip.".