planning
PLAN-ing
Planning (noun) means the process of thinking out in advance what needs to be done, in what order, and with what resources. Example: “A weekend of careful planning saved us weeks of work later.”
noun
1
The process of thinking out in advance what needs to be done, in what order, and with what resources.
"A weekend of careful planning saved us weeks of work later."
"Poor planning is the main reason projects run over budget."
"Good planning means you pack the car the night before a long journey."
2
chiefly British The official control of how land and buildings may be developed, and the permission system that goes with it.
"The extension was refused planning permission."
"She works for the council's planning department."
"Neighbours objected to the new flats, so the planning committee delayed its decision."
verb
1
Present participle of plan: deciding on and arranging the details of something in advance.
"They are planning a trip to Japan for the spring."
"We're planning a surprise party for Dad's birthday next month."
"Are you planning to walk to work, or will you take the bus?"
How to use planning
Learner’s notesIn plain EnglishWorking out ahead of time what you are going to do and how.
When to use it
Neutral and extremely common. In Britain, "planning" on its own often means the land-use permission system.
Memory tip
Scheduling is only about when things happen; planning covers what, how and with what as well.
Easily confused with
Common pairings
forward planning
strategic planning
planning permission
financial planning
planning ahead
Vocabulary Flow
Build your vocabulary from words like planning.
Vocabulary Flow serves the next word, and the next — meaning, pronunciation and an example each time. Practice at your level, or learn English in your own language.
Start vocabulary practice
Fill the gap
Can you complete this real example?
A weekend of careful _____ saved us weeks of work later.
Synonyms
View more →Antonyms
Related words
Rhymes for planning
See all rhymes for planning →Frequently asked questions
What is the difference between planning and strategy?
A strategy is the overall approach you choose for reaching a goal — the direction. Planning is the detailed work of turning that direction into specific steps, dates and resources. Strategy decides where to go; planning works out how to get there.
What does "planning permission" mean?
In the UK, planning permission is formal approval from the local council to build something new or significantly change an existing building. Without it, work can be ordered to stop or be undone. The American equivalent is usually handled through zoning and building permits.
What is the meaning of planning?
"planning" (noun) means the process of thinking out in advance what needs to be done, in what order, and with what resources.
What is another word for planning?
Other words for "planning" include preparation, organisation, forethought, scheduling, strategising, provision.
