plans are tentative

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "plans are tentative" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used to indicate that plans are not final and may change in the future. Example: "Due to unforeseen circumstances, our plans are tentative and subject to change."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

3 human-written examples

And, considered by the pure light of public-policy design, their reform plans are tentative at best.

The Economist

All plans are tentative until we arrive (or not) at our destination.

Huffington Post

You've been in New York long enough to know that all plans are tentative and any reason is good enough to postpone, cancel or reschedule as needed.

Huffington Post

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

54 human-written examples

He stressed that the yard plans were tentative.

The New York Times

That plan is tentative, Girardi said.

The New York Times

There are tentative plans to privatise and open up more industries, for example in electricity provision.

The Economist

(There are tentative plans to start a youth orchestra to develop musicians from within the housing system).

The New York Times - Arts

Both now have a new obsession, golf, and there are tentative plans in place for their sporting rivalry to be renewed.

The Guardian - Sport

But if the project succeeds, there are tentative plans to open the river above the pond, where it is now dammed at both ends, leading to another 370 acres of fresh water.

The New York Times

There are tentative plans for a tattoo reading "Just Fuck It".

Vice

While there are tentative plans for some theater showings, it is just a $10 DVD which you can preorder here.

Huffington Post

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When communicating that "plans are tentative", be sure to provide context about what factors could influence changes. This manages expectations and reduces potential disappointment.

Common error

Don't treat "plans are tentative" as an excuse for poor preparation. Even if subject to change, tentative plans should still be approached with diligence and a commitment to execute them as initially outlined, unless adjustments become necessary.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "plans are tentative" functions as a descriptive statement, indicating the status of certain arrangements or intentions. It conveys that these arrangements are not yet final and are subject to potential changes, which aligns with Ludwig's AI assessment of the phrase as correct and usable.

Expression frequency: Uncommon

Frequent in

News & Media

100%

Less common in

Science

0%

Formal & Business

0%

Wiki

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, the phrase "plans are tentative" is a grammatically sound and understandable way to express that future arrangements are not yet finalized. Ludwig's analysis confirms its correctness and usability, primarily within news and media contexts. While relatively uncommon, it effectively communicates uncertainty and manages expectations. When using this phrase, consider providing context about potential influencing factors and avoid interpreting tentativeness as a reason to reduce preparation efforts. For alternative phrasing, consider "plans are provisional" or "plans are subject to change" for similar meanings.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

plans are provisional

Emphasizes the temporary nature of the plans, suggesting they are subject to confirmation.

plans are subject to change

Directly states the possibility of modifications to the plans.

plans are not yet finalized

Highlights the incomplete stage of the planning process.

plans are still in development

Focuses on the ongoing process of creating the plans.

plans are up in the air

Suggests a high degree of uncertainty and unpredictability.

plans are indefinite

Indicates that the plans lack a clear or fixed state.

plans are unconfirmed

Implies that the plans have not been officially approved.

plans are touch and go

Describes the plans as precarious and with an uncertain outcome.

plans are fluid

Illustrates that the plans are adaptable and likely to evolve.

plans are in a state of flux

Highlights the dynamic and ever-changing nature of the plans.

FAQs

How can I use "plans are tentative" in a sentence?

You can use "plans are tentative" to indicate that arrangements are not yet final and might change, such as, "Due to the evolving situation, our "plans are tentative" and subject to review".

What's a more formal way to say "plans are tentative"?

In a more formal context, you could say "plans are provisional" or "arrangements are subject to confirmation". These alternatives convey a similar meaning with a higher degree of formality.

What does it mean when someone says "plans are tentative"?

When someone says "plans are tentative", it means the arrangements are not yet confirmed and could potentially change depending on circumstances or new information.

Which is correct, "plans are tentative" or "the plans are tentative"?

Both phrases are correct, but "the plans are tentative" specifies particular plans, whereas "plans are tentative" can refer to plans in general. The choice depends on the specific context.