Meaning & use
blueprints
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“blueprints” is a form of “blueprint”. See that entry for the full set of meanings.
Meanings
nounpluraltechnical
Detailed technical drawings, traditionally white lines on blue paper, that show how something is to be built.
Grammar: This is the plural of blueprint; the singular is used for one drawing.
Patterns
- blueprints for something
- draw up blueprints
The architect spread the blueprints across the table.
Workers followed the blueprints to wire the new school.
The original blueprints were stored in the city archive.
nounpluralfigurative
Detailed plans or models that others can follow to achieve something.
Grammar: Figurative use; often followed by for: blueprints for reform.
Patterns
- blueprints for something
- a blueprint for success
The study offers blueprints for cutting energy use in schools.
Governments are drafting blueprints for rebuilding the economy.
These stories provide blueprints for living a simple life.
Word forms
| singular | blueprint |
|---|
Common combinations
- draw up blueprints
- Engineers drew up blueprints for the bridge.
- follow the blueprints
- The builders followed the blueprints closely.
- original blueprints
- The original blueprints showed a hidden room.
- blueprints for success
- The book claims to offer blueprints for success.
- architectural blueprints
- Architectural blueprints must be approved before work starts.
Synonyms and how they differ
- plans
- Plans is a general word and can be any intentions, while blueprints suggests precise technical detail.
- schematics
- Schematics are simplified diagrams of systems such as electronics, rather than full building drawings.
- templates
- Templates are patterns to copy, whereas blueprints are specific designs for one project.
- designs
- Designs may be rough ideas, while blueprints are finished and ready for building.
Word family
Commonly confused: blueprints or blue prints?
blueprints vs blue prints
Written as two words it would mean prints that are blue. The plan-drawing noun is one word, blueprint.
Practice
The builders refused to start until they had seen the final ______.
Choose one answer.
Blueprints are the technical drawings builders follow. The other nouns are unrelated words that merely begin with blue.
Make it your own
Write a sentence using “blueprints”, then check it and compare it with the examples above.