a clear plan

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "a clear plan" is correct and usable in written English.
You can use it when referring to a well-defined and easily understandable strategy or course of action. Example: "In order to achieve our goals, we need to develop a clear plan that outlines our steps and objectives."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Wiki

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

Everton, however, had a clear plan.

The Guardian - Sport

Did Mr Gates have a clear plan of action?

The Economist

The Galaxy, meanwhile, had a clear plan of attack.

The New York Times - Sports

Even fewer (25%) think the Democratic Party has a clear plan.

The Economist

Most Americans also say the president lacks a clear plan for solving the nation's problems.

The New York Times

Only 32% think Mr Bush has a clear plan for handling the situation.

The Economist

Nobody, it seems, has a clear plan for how to tame Somalia's unruly seas.

The New York Times

As far as the use of conventional forces, we've got a clear plan.

The New York Times

"We couldn't afford to go into the convention without a clear plan and strategy.

The New York Times

"I had several offers but wanted a club with a clear plan.

The Guardian - Sport

Labour will commit to a clear plan for a fully integrated railway in public ownership".

The Guardian

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When outlining your project, ensure you articulate "a clear plan" early on to manage expectations and demonstrate foresight.

Common error

Avoid making "a clear plan" so inflexible that it cannot adapt to new information or changing circumstances. Balance clarity with adaptability.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "a clear plan" functions primarily as a noun phrase, often serving as the object of a verb or the complement of a preposition. As shown in Ludwig, it describes something tangible or conceptual.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

37%

Science

30%

Wiki

14%

Less common in

Formal & Business

10%

Reference

5%

Encyclopedias

4%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The phrase “a clear plan” is a versatile and frequently used noun phrase that signifies a well-defined strategy or course of action. Ludwig's analysis indicates that it is grammatically correct and widely accepted in various contexts, ranging from news and media to scientific and business settings. While the phrase is common, ensure your "a clear plan" is adaptable to changes. Remember, as Ludwig AI indicates, a clear plan should be specific, measurable, achievable, relevant, and time-bound, while also allowing for flexibility.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

a well-defined strategy

Replaces "plan" with "strategy", emphasizing the strategic aspect.

a concrete roadmap

Substitutes "plan" with "roadmap", highlighting the step-by-step nature of the approach.

a solid game plan

Uses "game plan" instead of "plan", suggesting a strategic approach, often used in business or sports contexts.

a definite course of action

Replaces "plan" with "course of action", focusing on the steps to be taken.

a structured approach

Emphasizes the organized nature of the "plan".

a precise methodology

Highlights the systematic aspect of the "plan", especially in scientific or technical contexts.

a detailed blueprint

Uses "blueprint" to suggest a comprehensive and well-documented "plan".

a strategic framework

Emphasizes the strategic and structural elements of the "plan".

an explicit agenda

Focuses on the clarity and openness of the "plan".

a set strategy

Highlights that the “plan” is already prepared.

FAQs

How can I use "a clear plan" in a sentence?

You can use "a clear plan" to describe a well-defined strategy. For example, "The company needs "a clear plan" to increase sales".

What are some alternatives to saying "a clear plan"?

Alternatives include "a well-defined strategy", "a concrete roadmap", or "a solid game plan" depending on the context.

Is it better to have "a clear plan" or a flexible approach?

It depends on the situation. While "a clear plan" provides structure and direction, a flexible approach allows for adaptation to unforeseen circumstances. Ideally, you should have "a clear plan" that is also adaptable.

What makes "a clear plan" effective?

An effective "a clear plan" is specific, measurable, achievable, relevant, and time-bound (SMART). It should also be communicated effectively to all stakeholders.