according to plans

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "according to plans" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used when referring to actions or outcomes that align with previously established plans or expectations. Example: "The project is progressing according to plans, and we expect to meet the deadline."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Encyclopedias

Science

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

59 human-written examples

To visit the sun: A NASA spacecraft, by 2018, according to plans.

The New Yorker

There, his new 5,000-square-foot 5,000-square-foot 5,000-square-footFrank Lloyd Wrighouselso stands.

The New York Times

Labour is calling for Whitehall to relinquish economic power to the regions, according to plans published by the party today.

The Guardian

It will feature four tiers of balconies above the stalls, according to plans seen by the Times.

The Guardian

The engineer will have to inspect the crane to certify that it was built and assembled according to plans.

The New York Times

When Motsinger and Mantzaris talk about their daily chores, it's always with the disclaimer "if everything goes according to plans".

The Guardian

The next Scottish census may ask people about their sexual orientation for the first time, according to plans being considered by the Scottish Government.

Independent

The city was rebuilt according to plans by the architect Carl Ludwig Engel, but it was again damaged during World War II.

Encyclopedia Britannica

When the Dutch blockaded port traffic, the Belgians were forced to turn to a system of railways constructed according to plans and technologies supplied by George Stephenson.

Encyclopedia Britannica

For this reason, when conditions are right, construction continues at all hours, according to plans drawn up by a project manager.

Independent

By then, according to plans, a new surge of troops will have cleared southern Afghanistan of Taliban control, making them more amenable to negotiating peace.

The New York Times

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When precision is paramount, specify whose plans you are referring to. For example, "according to the company's plans" or "according to NASA's plans".

Common error

Avoid using "according to plans" in very informal conversations. Simpler phrases like "as planned" or "everything's on track" may be more appropriate to maintain a natural tone.

Linguistic Context

According to plans functions primarily as a prepositional phrase that modifies a verb or clause. Ludwig AI suggests that it specifies the manner in which an action is being carried out, indicating adherence to a previously established strategy or arrangement. Examples show it qualifying progress, construction, and implementation of different projects.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

67%

Encyclopedias

13%

Science

9%

Less common in

Wiki

6%

Formal & Business

3%

Reference

1%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, the phrase "according to plans" is a grammatically sound and frequently used prepositional phrase that signals adherence to pre-established arrangements. Ludwig AI indicates its prevalence in news and formal publications, suggesting a neutral to professional register. While simpler alternatives exist for informal settings, "according to plans" effectively conveys a sense of order and predictability. When using this phrase, consider specifying the source of the plans to enhance clarity. With a source quality score of 86 and an expert rating of 4.6, it's a reliable choice for professional and academic writing.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

as planned

This is a more concise alternative, suitable for informal contexts. It omits "according to", making it shorter and more direct.

in accordance with the plans

This alternative is more formal and emphasizes compliance with the existing plans.

consistent with the plans

This suggests agreement or alignment with the outlined plans, focusing on coherence.

based on prior arrangements

Highlights that a previous arrangement is dictating current actions.

following the schedule

This highlights adherence to a specific timetable or sequence of events.

conforming to strategy

This highlights how the action is being done in accordance to business or strategic strategy.

as per the roadmap

This is commonly used in project management and strategic contexts, referencing a documented roadmap.

in keeping with the agenda

This is useful in professional contexts, signaling adherence to a set agenda.

pursuant to the arrangements

This is a highly formal and legalistic alternative, indicating actions taken in line with agreed arrangements.

under the blueprint

This alternative evokes a structured plan, like an architectural blueprint.

FAQs

How can I use "according to plans" in a sentence?

You can use "according to plans" to indicate that something is happening as expected or intended, based on a pre-existing plan. For example, "The building is progressing "according to plans" and should be completed by next year."

What's a less formal way to say "according to plans"?

Alternatives include "as planned", "on schedule", or "on track". The best choice depends on the specific context and the level of formality required.

Is it always necessary to specify whose plans you're referring to when using "according to plans"?

While not always necessary, specifying the source of the plans adds clarity and reduces ambiguity. For instance, saying "according to the city's plans" leaves no doubt about the origin of the planning.

What is the difference between "according to plans" and "in accordance with the plans"?

"According to plans" is a general way of saying something is proceeding as intended. "In accordance with the plans" is more formal and emphasizes compliance or conformity to the detailed stipulations of those plans.