formulate a plan

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "formulate a plan" is correct and usable in written English.
You can use it when you want to explain that you need to come up with a plan or strategy for something. For example, "We need to formulate a plan for how to move forward with the project."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Academia

Science

Wiki

Encyclopedias

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

54 human-written examples

It could never formulate a plan.

The New Yorker

I'll look at the videos tomorrow, formulate a plan.

The Guardian - Sport

team, his older brothers began to formulate a plan for his future.

The New York Times - Sports

Mr. Emanuel also helped formulate a plan expanding access to community colleges.

The New York Times

So his friend Ian, who is a couple of years older, helped him formulate a plan.

The New York Times - Magazine

"The city desires and needs to formulate a plan; it is their only hope".

The New York Times

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

6 human-written examples

We sum hotspot areas to determine optimal ERAs to formulate a planning map (resolution 50 m).

Nature

Step 3 of the IM process is intended to formulate a program plan.

BMC Health Services Research

So he formulated a plan.

The New York Times

"We're formulating a plan".

The New York Times

Last fall, the three met for coffee and formulated a plan.

The New York Times

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "formulate a plan" when describing a process of creating a strategy or approach. This phrase is suitable for both formal and informal contexts.

Common error

Don't just say you need to "formulate a plan" without specifying the purpose or key elements of that plan. A clear articulation of the plan's goals and steps is essential for effective communication.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "formulate a plan" functions as a verbal phrase typically used as part of a clause. According to Ludwig, the phrase is correct and usable in written English. It generally serves as the main verb expressing the action of creating a strategy.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

45%

Academia

20%

Science

15%

Less common in

Wiki

10%

Formal & Business

5%

Encyclopedias

5%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "formulate a plan" is a versatile and frequently used phrase that describes the process of creating a strategy to achieve a goal. Ludwig AI confirms its grammatical correctness and usability across various contexts, from formal business settings to informal discussions. It is particularly common in news and media, academic, and scientific sources. When using this phrase, clarity and specificity are key to effective communication, ensuring the purpose and elements of the plan are clearly articulated.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

develop a strategy

Focuses on the strategic aspect of planning, implying a more comprehensive and long-term approach.

devise a scheme

Suggests a more detailed and often less formal or even slightly underhanded plan.

create a roadmap

Implies a visual and step-by-step plan, often used in business or project management.

establish a blueprint

Highlights the structural and foundational elements of the plan.

design a course of action

Emphasizes the practical steps and actions involved in the plan.

craft a strategy

Uses a more artistic and careful approach to creating a plan.

set up a procedure

Emphasizes establishing a standardized method or routine.

arrange a setup

Highlights the preparation and organization aspects.

orchestrate an arrangement

Suggests a complex and coordinated plan, often involving multiple parties.

map out a course

Similar to creating a roadmap, but focuses on direction and progress.

FAQs

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

You can use "formulate a plan" to describe the process of creating a strategy. For example, "The team needs to "formulate a plan" to address the declining sales figures."

What are some alternatives to "formulate a plan"?

Alternatives include "develop a strategy", "devise a scheme", or "create a roadmap", depending on the specific context.

Is it better to say "formulate a plan" or "make a plan"?

"Formulate a plan" is more formal and suggests a careful, systematic approach, while "make a plan" is more general and can be used in everyday conversation. Choose the phrase that best suits the formality of your context.

What does it mean to "formulate a plan"?

To "formulate a plan" means to carefully create or develop a strategy or method for achieving a specific goal. It implies a structured and thoughtful approach to planning.