plan to do something

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "plan to do something" is correct and usable in written English.
You can use it when expressing an intention or arrangement to undertake a specific action in the future. Example: "I plan to do something special for my friend's birthday next week."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Academia

Wiki

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

55 human-written examples

Do I plan to do something about it?

The New York Times - Sports

He always had a plan to do something new.

The Guardian

If you plan to do something that you are not absolutely sure is legal, ask first.

Princeton University

If you plan to do something that you are not absolutely sure is permitted, ask first.

Princeton University

John Kerry and I have a plan to do something about it.

The New York Times

MR. BUSH -- Well, I've got a plan to do something about that.

The New York Times

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

5 human-written examples

Plans to do something else.

The Guardian - Sport

It means planning to do something bad.

The New Yorker

Was he planning to do something about it?

The New York Times

For me, it means planning to do something good.

The New Yorker

In July, Honda plans to do something it hasn't done for almost 50 years.

The New York Times

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "plan to do something", ensure that the action you intend to undertake is clearly defined and aligns with the overall context of your writing. Avoid vague or ambiguous statements about your plans.

Common error

Avoid stating that you "plan to do something" if you lack a realistic strategy or the necessary resources to execute it. This can undermine your credibility.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "plan to do something" functions as an infinitive phrase that expresses an intention or future action. Ludwig AI indicates that this phrase is grammatically correct and commonly used.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

48%

Academia

14%

Wiki

7%

Less common in

Formal & Business

7%

Science

7%

Reference

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, the phrase "plan to do something" is a grammatically correct and very common infinitive phrase used to express an intention to perform a future action. Ludwig AI confirms its acceptability. It is versatile, fitting into both formal and informal contexts, though predominantly found in neutral settings like news and media. When using the phrase, clarity and a realistic strategy are crucial. For alternative phrasing, consider phrases such as "intend to do something" or "aim to accomplish something".

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

intend to take action

This alternative focuses on the intention behind the action.

set out to achieve a goal

This alternative emphasizes the initiation of a purposeful journey.

aim to accomplish something

This alternative emphasizes the goal or accomplishment.

resolve to act

This alternative conveys a sense of determination.

have designs on doing something

This alternative suggests a more ambitious or strategic approach.

scheme to achieve something

This alternative hints at a potentially elaborate or secret plan.

expect to perform an action

This alternative implies a high degree of certainty.

contemplate undertaking something

This alternative implies a more thoughtful consideration before action.

aspire to carry out something

This alternative suggests a strong desire and ambition.

propose to initiate something

This alternative is more formal and suggests a formal proposal.

FAQs

How can I use "plan to do something" in a sentence?

You can use "plan to do something" to express your intentions for future actions. For example, "I plan to do something special for my anniversary".

What are some alternatives to "plan to do something"?

Some alternatives include "intend to do something", "aim to accomplish something", or "expect to perform an action" depending on the context.

What's the difference between "plan to do something" and "planning to do something"?

"Plan to do something" generally indicates a future intention, while "planning to do something" implies an ongoing process of devising a strategy.

Is it formal to use "plan to do something"?

The phrase "plan to do something" is suitable for both formal and informal contexts, making it a versatile option.