a general plan

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "a general plan" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used when referring to an overarching strategy or outline that provides direction without going into specific details. Example: "Before we proceed with the project, let's outline a general plan to ensure we stay on track."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Academia

Wiki

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

51 human-written examples

"The redevelopment plan is a general plan," he noted.

The New York Times

He said he had a "general plan, and I kind of stuck to it".

The New York Times - Magazine

"We've agreed on a general plan for a story, and a writer has been assigned".

The New York Times

After having a general plan, the next step is to create the form and set its particular properties.

Microsoft Outlook 2007 Programming Jumpstart for Power Users and Administrators

Astana is being built according to a general plan devised by the famed Japanese architect Kisho Kurokawa.

The New Yorker

Inset : A general plan of Port Royal, in which the different states of the town are accurately laid down.

Stanford University

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

9 human-written examples

"Ithaca, New York: A General Plan" (1971) with sketches by Peter Kahn; members of the Planning Board include Edward J. Conley, Richard P. Korf, and John W. Reps.

Cornell University

We cannot afford to operate for a year without a General Plan; to do so is to cease to function.

Los Angeles Times

But we do have a General Plan that everyone was presumably in agreement with the last time it was updated.

Los Angeles Times

Costa Mesa officials have scheduled a General Plan update workshop for next week, this time with a family-friendly element.

Los Angeles Times

Only one problem with that assumption: the property has a General Plan designation as "Fairgrounds" and "Recreational-Institutional" zoning.

Los Angeles Times

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "a general plan", ensure it's followed by more specific details later in your writing to provide clarity.

Common error

Avoid using "a general plan" without any subsequent clarification. Readers need some indication of what the plan entails, even if specific details are not immediately available.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "a general plan" functions primarily as a noun phrase, often acting as the subject or object of a sentence. Ludwig AI indicates its usability in describing an overarching strategy or outline. Examples show it used in contexts ranging from urban development to personal projects.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

61%

Science

25%

Wiki

11%

Less common in

Academia

2%

Encyclopedias

1%

Formal & Business

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "a general plan" is a frequently used and grammatically sound phrase suitable for describing an overarching strategy or outline. According to Ludwig, it functions as a noun phrase and serves to convey the existence of a high-level framework. Its usage spans various registers, with a higher prevalence in News & Media, Science and Wiki contexts. When using this phrase, it is important to provide subsequent details for clarity and to avoid overly vague descriptions. Ludwig AI confirms its widespread usability and provides examples for effective implementation.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

a broad strategy

Emphasizes the overall approach without specific details.

an outline

Focuses on the structural framework, often lacking specifics.

a strategic framework

Highlights a structured and purposeful approach.

a basic roadmap

Conveys a simplified, step-by-step guide.

a high-level overview

Provides a summary from a bird's-eye perspective.

a preliminary scheme

Suggests an early, tentative plan.

a conceptual design

Highlights the theoretical and abstract nature of the plan.

an action plan

Emphasizes actionable steps and concrete tasks.

a master plan

Signifies a comprehensive and long-term plan.

a working model

Indicates a plan that is currently being tested and refined.

FAQs

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

You can use "a general plan" to describe an overarching strategy or outline. For instance, "The city council approved "a general plan" for urban redevelopment."

What are some alternatives to "a general plan"?

Depending on the context, you can use alternatives such as "a broad strategy", "an outline", or "a strategic framework".

Is it better to have a general plan or a detailed plan?

It depends on the situation. A general plan provides flexibility and direction, while a detailed plan offers precision and clarity. Often, it's best to start with "a general plan" and then develop more specific plans as needed.

What's the difference between "a general plan" and "a master plan"?

While both involve planning, "a general plan" is typically less comprehensive and detailed than "a master plan", which is a more thorough and long-term strategy.