打算

• Pinyin: dǎ suàn
• Hanzi breakdown: 打 = 扌 (hand) + 丁 (nail) — to do, to make; 算 = 竹 (bamboo) + 目 (eye) + 廾 (two hands) — to calculate

Meaning

To plan; to intend. Also used as a noun meaning a plan or intention.

A very common word for expressing intentions and plans. More casual than 计划 (plan, which is more formal and detailed). Often used to discuss future actions or ask about someone's plans.

Examples

1. 你周末打算做什么？ What are you planning to do this weekend?
2. 我打算明年去中国旅游。 I plan to travel to China next year.
3. 他没有什么打算，走一步看一步。 He doesn't have any particular plans — he takes it one step at a time.

Usage Guide

Context: plans, intentions, future

Tone: casual

Do Say

• 你有什么打算？(What are your plans?)
• 我打算下个月搬家。(I plan to move next month.)

Don't Say

• 不要混淆打算和计划 — 打算 is more informal and refers to intentions, while 计划 is more formal and detailed, like a structured plan.

Origin & History

Compound of 打 (to hit, to make) and 算 (to calculate, to count). Together they mean to figure out or work out a plan.

Cultural Context

Generation: All ages

Social background: Universal