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How to Say "scheme" in Spanish

The most common Spanish word for “scheme” is “plan” — use 'plan' for any general, systematic plan of action, from daily activities to larger projects. It's the most common and neutral translation..

English → Spanish

plan

/plahn//plan/

nounA1
Use 'plan' for any general, systematic plan of action, from daily activities to larger projects. It's the most common and neutral translation.
A cartoon character standing at the start of a winding, colored path that leads toward a star, symbolizing steps and intentions for the future.

Examples

¿Cuál es el plan para esta noche?

What's the plan for tonight?

Tenemos un plan para mejorar las ventas de la empresa.

We have a plan to improve the company's sales.

Mi plan es viajar por Sudamérica el próximo año.

My plan is to travel through South America next year.

It's a Masculine Noun

Even though 'plan' doesn't end in -o, it's a masculine word. Always say 'el plan' (the plan) or 'un plan' (a plan).

Using 'la' instead of 'el'

Mistake: “La plan es bueno.”

Correction: El plan es bueno. Remember that 'plan' is masculine.

iniciativa

/ee-nee-syah-tee-bah//iniθjaˈtiβa/

nounB2
Choose 'iniciativa' when 'scheme' refers to an organized project or a specific undertaking, often with a positive or community-oriented goal.
A group of people planting small trees together in a park.

Examples

Es una iniciativa para limpiar las playas.

It is an initiative to clean the beaches.

El gobierno lanzó una nueva iniciativa educativa.

The government launched a new educational initiative.

Using 'a iniciativa de'

This phrase is used to say that something happened because a specific person suggested it. Example: 'A iniciativa de María, fuimos al cine' (At Maria's suggestion, we went to the movies).

jugada

hoo-GAH-dah/xuˈɣaða/

nounB1informal
Use 'jugada' for a clever or strategic move, often in business, sports, or politics, which might be risky or have a slightly negative undertone.
A stylized red and yellow biplane banking sharply to the left against a bright blue sky, illustrating a calculated strategic action.

Examples

La compra de la empresa fue una jugada financiera muy arriesgada.

The purchase of the company was a very risky financial maneuver.

No sé si fue suerte o si fue una jugada maestra de su parte.

I don't know if it was luck or if it was a master stroke (masterful move) on his part.

Descubrieron la jugada política que planeaban los opositores.

They discovered the political scheme the opponents were planning.

Figurative Use

In this context, 'jugada' means that someone is 'playing' a strategic role in real life, treating the situation like a game of strategy.

conspiración

nounB2
Select 'conspiración' specifically for a secret, often illicit or malicious, plan made by a group of people.

Examples

La policía descubrió la conspiración para robar el banco central.

The police uncovered the conspiracy to rob the central bank.

Plan vs. Iniciativa vs. Jugada

Learners often confuse 'plan' and 'iniciativa'. Remember that 'plan' is a general term for any structured action, while 'iniciativa' implies a more specific, organized project, often with a defined purpose or goal. 'Jugada' is distinct, referring to a specific, often strategic, maneuver.

Related Translations

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