planning
n.-
1 making a plan (n.) B1 Intermediatethe act of deciding how you will do something in the future.
the process of making arrangements or designs for a future course of action. Uncountable in its general sense.
ExampleGood planning is the secret to a successful family holiday.
ExampleStrategic planning requires a thorough understanding of both current market trends and the long-term goals of the organization.
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2 urban development (n.) B2 Upper Intermediatethe control of how land is used and where new buildings are built.
the professional and administrative activity of regulating the use of land and the design of the urban environment.
ExampleThe city has very strict planning laws to protect historic buildings.
ExampleThe local council rejected the proposal on the grounds that it violated several key urban planning regulations regarding green spaces.
- zoning
- urban design
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3 official permission (n.) C1 Advanced British English Informal Lawofficial permission from a local government to build or change a building.
a shortened form of 'planning permission', referring to the formal consent required for construction or renovation. Often used elliptically in British English.
ExampleWe want to add a new room to the house, but we haven't got planning yet.
ExampleThe developer proceeded with the demolition before the committee had officially granted planning for the new residential complex.
UsageOften functions as an uncountable noun when used as a shorthand for the permission itself.
Teacher's tipThis sense is very common in British real estate and home improvement contexts; learners should know it implies the legal document or consent.