diagram · plan

1. Origins, structure, and basic meaning

• Structure: 図 is associated with diagrams and with seeking to bring something about; its on-reading is ず and its kun-reading is はかる.
• Basic usage: 図(ず) means a diagram or illustration, while 図る(はかる) is a verb meaning to seek or work toward a goal.

2. Common pitfalls and similar expressions

• An explanatory image and an intended goal
  • 人口の変化を図にして means representing population changes in a diagram. A 図 in an instruction manual is an image used to understand how to assemble the shelf.
  • 時間の短縮を図る means seeking to reduce the time needed, while 親睦を図った means that someone sought to promote friendly relations. These expressions focus on efforts toward a goal; whether it was achieved depends on the following context.