The Difference Between “計画する” (Keikaku Suru) and “予定する” (Yotei Suru)
Do “計画する” (Keikaku Suru) and “予定する” (Yotei Suru) really mean the same thing?When should I use “計画する” and when should I use “予定する”?I’m not sure about the subtle difference between these two terms…
“計画する” (Keikaku Suru) and “予定する” (Yotei Suru) are both used to talk about the future, but they actually have a subtle difference in nuance.
For all Japanese learners, Eri from JPLT Online Japanese Language School explains the difference between these two words in detail.
What Does “計画する” (Keikaku Suru) Mean? (To Plan)
“計画する” (Keikaku Suru) means to create a specific plan or method in order to achieve a goal and decide to execute it by a certain time in the future.
-
Example: “来週のプレゼンテーションのために、今から計画を立てよう。” (Raishuu no purezenteeshon no tame ni, ima kara keikaku o tateyou.)“Let’s make a plan now for next week’s presentation.”
-
Characteristics: It involves a more detailed image of actions, steps, and schedules to achieve a goal.
What Does “予定する” (Yotei Suru) Mean? (To Schedule)
“予定する” (Yotei Suru) means to decide on an action to take at a certain time in the future.
-
Example: “週末は友達と旅行に行く予定だ。” (Shuumatsu wa tomodachi to ryokou ni iku yotei da.)“I plan to go on a trip with my friend this weekend.”
-
Characteristics: Focuses more on the time aspect of the action rather than the specific steps or methods involved.
Difference Between “計画する” (Keikaku Suru) and “予定する” (Yotei Suru)
|
Word
|
Meaning (English)
|
Meaning (Japanese)
|
Characteristics
|
|---|---|---|---|
|
計画する
|
To plan (in a detailed way)
|
To create a detailed plan and decide on the methods to achieve a goal
|
Detailed plan and goal achievement
|
|
予定する
|
To schedule (an event or activity)
|
To decide when and what to do at a specific time
|
Focuses on the timing of the action
|
Which One Should You Use?
-
When you want to make a detailed action plan: Use “計画する” (Keikaku Suru).
-
When you want to decide when you’ll do something: Use “予定する” (Yotei Suru).
Summary: The Difference Between “計画する” (Keikaku Suru) and “予定する” (Yotei Suru)
“計画する” (Keikaku Suru) and “予定する” (Yotei Suru) both refer to the future, but their meanings are quite different.
“計画する” (Keikaku Suru) is about making a specific plan and determining the steps or methods to achieve a goal by a certain time, similar to creating a blueprint for a new building. It’s about details and goal achievement.
On the other hand, “予定する” (Yotei Suru) focuses more on deciding when to do something, with less emphasis on the specific actions or methods. For example, you might say, “I’m planning to see a movie this weekend” — it’s about when, but not necessarily the exact details of how.
In summary, “計画する” (Keikaku Suru) involves a more detailed action plan, while “予定する” (Yotei Suru) is about deciding the timing of an event or action.
Japanese language is rich with subtle differences like this. Even though words may seem similar, understanding their nuances can significantly improve your ability to express yourself. Learning Japanese isn’t just about memorizing vocabulary — it’s about understanding the deeper cultural and historical meanings behind the words.
Just like how “計画する” (Keikaku Suru) and “予定する” (Yotei Suru) have different meanings, Japanese is full of fascinating nuances waiting for you to discover. By learning the deeper meanings and uses of each word, you’ll be able to communicate in a more nuanced and effective way.
