1.
concept, plan, vision, idea
A broad plan or vision for something to be created or achieved. Used for large-scale ideas such as urban development plans, novel plots, business strategies, or architectural designs. Implies creative or strategic thinking at a high level.
新しい構想を練る。
To work out a new concept.
小説の構想はできているが、まだ書き始めていない。
I have the concept for the novel, but I haven't started writing yet.
市長は駅前の再開発について壮大な構想を発表した。
The mayor announced a grand vision for the redevelopment of the area in front of the station.
ETYMOLOGY:
構 (to construct, to plan) + 想 (thought, idea). Literally "constructed thought" — a carefully built-up idea.
USAGE:
構想 implies a big-picture plan that has been thought through, but not necessarily finalized or implemented. It is commonly used with 練る (to work out, to refine) and 立てる (to set up). As a する verb, 構想する means "to conceive a plan."
COMMON COLLOCATIONS:
- 構想を練る: to work out / refine a concept
- 構想を立てる: to formulate a plan
- 構想を発表する: to announce a plan
- 壮大な構想: a grand vision
- 構想段階: planning stage