有什么计划？

Using this phrase is as easy as making instant noodles. You can drop it at the end of a greeting. For example, "Hey, the weekend is coming, 有什么计划？" You can also add a time word at the beginning. Try 这个周末有什么计划？ (Any plans for this weekend?). If you are talking to a specific person, add 你 (nǐ) at the start. It works perfectly in person, over voice notes, or via WeChat. It is a low-pressure way to start a conversation.

Use it when you actually want to hang out with someone. It is great for Friday afternoons at the office. Use it with friends when you are bored on a Tuesday. It is also a polite way to show interest in someone's life. If a colleague mentions they are going to Shanghai, ask 有什么计划？ to hear about their trip. It shows you are listening and care about their fun.

Don't use this in high-stakes formal settings. Avoid asking your CEO 有什么计划？ during a serious board meeting. It might sound a bit too casual or even nosy. Also, don't use it if you are in a rush. If you ask, be prepared to listen to the answer! It is not a "throwaway" greeting like "How are you?" in some cultures. People will actually tell you their plans.

In China, social circles are often built around shared activities. Asking about plans is a soft way to gauge availability without the risk of a direct rejection. If they say they are busy, you haven't technically asked them out yet, so no one loses face! It reflects the "indirect" nature of Chinese social harmony. It is a safe, polite way to bridge the gap between acquaintances and friends.

If you want to sound even more like a local, try these. 你打算干嘛？ (nǐ dǎsuàn gànmá?) is more informal, like "What are you doing?". For a very casual vibe, use 去哪儿浪？ (qù nǎr làng?), which means "Where are you going to go wild?". If you are feeling extra polite, you could say 您有什么安排吗？ (nín yǒu shénme ānpái ma?). But for 90% of your life, 有什么计划？ is the sweet spot.