student asking question

What does "as a plan B" mean? Can I use other initials instead of B?

teacher

Native speaker’s answer

Rebecca

"Plan B" is used to mean an alternative plan of action for use if the original plan fails. You could use any letter but generally "b" is used because you're referring to a second plan. "Plan A" refers to the original plan and any other letter would have the nuance that it is the same number plan as that letter in the alphabet. Ex: A: Well, there's always Plan B. And if that fails, Plan C and D. B. How many plans do you have? A. I'm covered all the way up to G. Ex: Let's just go with Plan B.

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