lay out a plan

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "lay out a plan" is correct and usable in written English.
You could use it to suggest that someone should create an organized strategy or course of action for a particular project. For example, "We need to lay out a plan for completing this project on time."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Academia

Wiki

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

51 human-written examples

I want to lay out a plan.

The Guardian

Tomorrow I'll lay out a plan to take it on.

Independent

Now it's time to lay out a plan.

Harvard Business Review

The reluctance to lay out a plan was understandable.

The New York Times

These memories describe a history — they look backward — but they also lay out a plan.

The New York Times

But he was fighting back, and he could still try to lay out a plan.

The Economist

Now this generation has to lay out a plan for the next 150 years.

The Guardian

It is also supposed to lay out a plan for completing destruction, which will be monitored by the international inspectors.

The New York Times

A manifesto advances a set of ideas, opinions, or views, but it can also lay out a plan of action.

Encyclopedia Britannica

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

2 human-written examples

Because not only must the President speak of DADT during his address, he must lay-out a plan for its eventual repeal in a way that is democratic, long-lasting and moral.

Huffington Post

He should take the opportunity of the Autumn Statement in a few weeks' time to lay out a plan to reinvigorate Britain".

BBC

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "lay out a plan" when you want to emphasize not only the creation of a strategy but also its clear presentation to others. Consider alternative phrases if the emphasis is solely on the creation process.

Common error

Avoid using "lay out a plan" when the plan is not clearly defined or when details are lacking. Instead, use a more general phrase like "consider options" or "explore possibilities" until a concrete plan is developed.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "lay out a plan" functions as a verb phrase. It describes the action of presenting a strategy or course of action in a clear and organized manner. Ludwig AI confirms its grammatical correctness and usability.

Expression frequency: Common

Frequent in

News & Media

65%

Academia

15%

Wiki

10%

Less common in

Encyclopedias

2%

Science

3%

Formal & Business

5%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "lay out a plan" is a verb phrase used to describe the act of presenting a strategy or course of action in a clear and organized manner. According to Ludwig AI, the phrase is grammatically correct and widely applicable. It is commonly found in news, academic, and professional contexts, making it suitable for various communication purposes. When using this phrase, ensure that the plan is well-defined to avoid vagueness. Consider alternatives like "develop a strategy" or "outline a course of action" depending on the specific emphasis you wish to convey.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

develop a strategy

Focuses on the creation of the strategy rather than its presentation.

outline a course of action

Focuses on the steps to be taken rather than the overall strategy.

formulate a scheme

Implies a detailed and often complex plan, sometimes with a hint of secrecy.

devise a roadmap

Suggests a longer-term, more comprehensive strategy with clear milestones.

map out a program

Suggests carefully planning a series of activities or steps.

draft a proposal

Emphasizes the creation of a formal document outlining a plan.

present an agenda

Highlights the act of putting forward a list of items to be addressed.

chart a direction

Emphasizes setting a course or path for future actions.

detail a project

Implies a comprehensive description of a planned undertaking.

establish a framework

Implies setting up a basic structure within which to operate.

FAQs

What does "lay out a plan" mean?

To "lay out a plan" means to present a detailed strategy or course of action, making it clear and understandable for others.

How can I use "lay out a plan" in a sentence?

You can use it to describe the process of presenting a strategy. For example, "The CEO will "lay out a plan" for the company's future growth at the next meeting."

What can I say instead of "lay out a plan"?

You can use alternatives like "develop a strategy", "outline a course of action", or "draft a proposal" depending on the context.

Is it better to "lay out a plan" or "develop a plan"?

While both are correct, "lay out a plan" emphasizes the presentation and clarity of the plan, whereas "develop a plan" focuses more on the creation and refinement of the strategy itself.