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本打算
běn dǎsuàn
What does "本打算" mean in English?
originally intended to我本打算去看电影，但天气太差了。
I originally intended to go to the movies, but the weather was too bad.
How to use "本打算" correctly: definitions and examples in English?
neutral
Originally intended to do something, but the plan changed.
他本打算辞职，但后来改变了主意。
He originally intended to quit his job, but changed his mind later.
我们本打算明天出发，但航班被取消了。
We originally intended to depart tomorrow, but the flight was canceled.
Often used to indicate a past intention that did not materialize due to changed circumstances.
Related Phrases
Pro Tip
Common Structure
The phrase typically follows the structure: '[Subject] 本打算 [verb phrase]，但是/不过 [contrasting clause].' This highlights the contrast between the original plan and the actual outcome.
Gold Rule
Past Context Only
本打算 is exclusively used in past tense contexts to describe intentions that were later abandoned. It cannot be used for future or present intentions.
Word Origin
Combination of '本' (originally, at first) and '打算' (to plan/intend). The structure follows a common Chinese pattern where '本' modifies a verb phrase to indicate the original intention.
Usage Notes
Used in past tense contexts to describe an abandoned plan. Often followed by a contrasting clause with '但是' or '不过' to indicate the change of plan.
Word Breakdown
本
originally, at first
adverb打算
to plan/intend
verb汉英词典