Meaning
Organizing future actions.
Cultural Background
Estonians are known for being reserved and thinking things through. 'Plaani pidama' reflects this national character of quiet deliberation. In Estonian startups, 'plaani pidama' is often used during 'brainstorming' sessions, bridging the gap between old-school planning and modern agility. Historically, planning for the long, dark winters was a matter of survival. 'Plaani pidama' has roots in this seasonal preparedness. In Tallinn's fast-paced life, the phrase is used to slow down and indicate that a decision requires more thought.
Sound more native
Use 'plaani pidama' instead of 'planeerima' in casual conversation. It sounds much more natural and less like a textbook.
The 'Must' Trap
Remember that 'pidama' also means 'must'. Don't translate 'Ma pean plaani' as 'I must plan'. It always means 'I am planning'.
Meaning
Organizing future actions.
Sound more native
Use 'plaani pidama' instead of 'planeerima' in casual conversation. It sounds much more natural and less like a textbook.
The 'Must' Trap
Remember that 'pidama' also means 'must'. Don't translate 'Ma pean plaani' as 'I must plan'. It always means 'I am planning'.
Test Yourself
Fill in the correct form of the verb 'pidama'.
Me ______ plaani suvel Saaremaale minna.
Since the subject is 'Me' (we), the verb must be in the 1st person plural form 'peame'.
Which sentence is more idiomatic?
How do you say 'I am planning to buy a car'?
'Plaani pidama' is the standard idiom for the process of planning.
Complete the dialogue.
A: Mis te nädalavahetusel teete? B: Me alles ______ ______.
The phrase 'peame plaani' fits perfectly to show that the decision hasn't been made yet.
Match the sentence to the context.
1. Kass peab plaani. 2. Valitsus peab plaani. 3. Me peame plaani.
Context determines the flavor of the phrase.
🎉 Score: /4
Visual Learning Aids
Practice Bank
4 exercisesMe ______ plaani suvel Saaremaale minna.
Since the subject is 'Me' (we), the verb must be in the 1st person plural form 'peame'.
How do you say 'I am planning to buy a car'?
'Plaani pidama' is the standard idiom for the process of planning.
A: Mis te nädalavahetusel teete? B: Me alles ______ ______.
The phrase 'peame plaani' fits perfectly to show that the decision hasn't been made yet.
1. Kass peab plaani. 2. Valitsus peab plaani. 3. Me peame plaani.
Context determines the flavor of the phrase.
🎉 Score: /4
Frequently Asked Questions
4 questionsIt is neutral and can be used in both formal business meetings and casual chats with friends.
Yes, but it sounds more like you are physically creating a document. 'Plaani pidama' is better for the mental process.
'Plaanitsema' is a single verb and can sometimes sound a bit more like 'scheming'. 'Plaani pidama' is more standard.
Use 'pidasin': 'Ma pidasin plaani' (I was planning).
Related Phrases
nõu pidama
similarTo consult or deliberate with others.
plaanitsema
synonymTo plan or plot.
kavatsema
similarTo intend.
plaani võtma
builds onTo take something into one's plans.
