Quadruple VS
Synonym Boundary: "計画する", "案", "図る", "構想"
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
案
あん (an)
N3 / CEFR
Japanese Option C
図る
はかる (hakaru)
N2 / CEFR
Japanese Option D
構想
こうそう (kōsō)
N2 / CEFR
Quadruple VS Nuance Contrast & Social Differences
When expressing "plan" in Japanese, you must carefully distinguish between "計画する", "案", "図る", "構想" 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.
- 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..
- 図る (はかる (hakaru) - Level: N2): Maps to "to plan, to attempt, to devise, to seek, to aim for (e.g., efficiency, success)" and is used when 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。.
- 構想 (こうそう (kōsō) - Level: N2): Maps to "plan; scheme; idea; conception (especially for a large project)" and is used when Usually refers to a comprehensive and often grand design or plan for a project, work, or idea. It implies a detailed mental framework before execution. 新しいプロジェクトや作品などについて、全体的な計画や考えを練る際に使われます。.
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 "案"
新しい企画の案を出す。
I will propose a new project plan.
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.
Context for "構想"
新しい都市開発の構想が発表された。
A plan for new urban development was announced.
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.".