作戦(さくせん)

Composed of 作(さく) (make) + 戦(せん) (battle). Originally a military term, now widely used for strategies in everyday life, sports, and business.

Common collocations

• 作戦(さくせん)を立(た)てる: to devise a strategy
• 作戦(さくせん)を練(ね)る: to work out a strategy carefully
• 作戦(さくせん)を実行(じっこう)する: to carry out a plan
• 作戦(さくせん)会議(かいぎ): strategy meeting
• 作戦(さくせん)本部(ほんぶ): operations headquarters
• 作戦(さくせん)失敗(しっぱい): failed strategy/operation

Usage

In casual contexts, 作戦(さくせん) is used playfully for personal schemes or approaches: ダイエット作戦(さくせん) (diet strategy), 節約(せつやく)作戦(さくせん) (savings plan). This gives a lighthearted, game-like tone.

Similar words

• 戦略(せんりゃく): strategy (broader, long-term)
• 戦術(せんじゅつ): tactics (specific methods)
• 計画(けいかく): plan (neutral, no military connotation)