plan
Lemma Details
Translation: plan; scheme; project; blueprint; design
Part of Speech: noun
Etymology: From French 'plan', which comes from Latin 'planum' meaning 'flat surface' or 'level ground'. The concept evolved from the idea of a drawing on a flat surface to represent a design or scheme. The English word 'plan' shares the same etymology, making it a direct cognate.
Commonality: 90%
Guessability: 95%
Register: neutral
Example Usage
Tenemos un plan para el fin de semana.
We have a plan for the weekend.
El plan de estudios incluye matemáticas y ciencias.
The curriculum includes mathematics and science.
¿Cuál es el plan B si llueve?
What's plan B if it rains?
Necesitamos desarrollar un plan estratégico.
We need to develop a strategic plan.
Mnemonics
- It's spelled and pronounced almost exactly like the English word 'plan'
- Think of laying out a 'plan' on a flat (plano) surface
Related Words, Phrases & Idioms
Synonyms
Antonyms
Cultural Context
In Spanish-speaking countries, 'plan' is widely used in both professional and casual contexts. It's common in business, education, and everyday life planning. The term is also used in government and public policy contexts, such as 'Plan Nacional' (National Plan).
Easily Confused With
Explanation: While 'plan' refers to a scheme or project, 'plano' typically means a map, blueprint, or flat surface.
This word:
Vamos a seguir este plan para la reunión.
We're going to follow this plan for the meeting.
Confused word:
El arquitecto dibujó un plano detallado del edificio.
The architect drew a detailed blueprint of the building.
Notes: Both words share the same Latin root 'planum' (flat surface), but have evolved to have distinct meanings in modern Spanish.
Mnemonic: 'Plan' ends with 'n' for 'next steps', while 'plano' ends with 'o' for 'overview' (like a map or blueprint).