手筈

てはず

arrangement, plan, program

JLPT N1

Character Breakdown

Meaning and Usage

"手筈" (てはず) refers to the arrangements, plans, or preparations made in advance for an event or action. It is often used in formal or business contexts to describe the steps or procedures that have been set up.

Common Contexts

You will frequently see "手筈" used when talking about meetings, trips, events, or any situation requiring prior organization. It implies that the necessary preparations have been carefully thought out.

Collocations and Patterns

  • 手筈を整える: to make arrangements
  • 手筈を確認する: to confirm arrangements
  • 手筈通りに: according to plan

These collocations emphasize the process of preparing and ensuring everything is in order.

Register and Nuance

"手筈" is somewhat formal and is more common in written or polite spoken Japanese. It conveys a sense of thoroughness and reliability in planning.

Common Mistakes

Learners sometimes confuse "手筈" with casual words for plans like "予定" (よてい). While "予定" is a general schedule or plan, "手筈" focuses on the concrete arrangements and steps taken to realize that plan. Use "手筈" when emphasizing preparation and organization.

Example Sentences

かいぎのてはずはすでにととのっている。

The arrangements for the meeting have already been made.

りょこうのてはずをかくにんしておこう。

Let's confirm the travel arrangements.

てはずどおりにすすめば、もんだいはないはずだ。

If things proceed according to plan, there should be no problems.