筋書き

1. Origins, structure, and basic meaning

• Structure: In 筋書き (すじがき), line 筋 and written outline 書き combine to denote a plot or scenario.
• Basic usage: 筋書き denotes a story's plot or an outline devised for how events should unfold.

2. Common pitfalls and similar expressions

• Planned plot and actual outcome
  • It does not say that the planned sequence actually occurred, so outline and outcome remain distinct.