What context can I use each word in?
Learn when and how to use these words with these examples!
plan
Example
I have a plan to save money for my vacation next year. [plan: noun]
Example
Let's plan our route before we start driving. [plan: verb]
scheme
Example
The politician was involved in a corrupt scheme to embezzle funds. [scheme: noun]
Example
She schemed to get her rival fired from the company. [schemed: verb]
Good things to know
Which word is more common?
Plan is a more common word than scheme and is used in a variety of contexts, including business, education, and personal life. Scheme is less common and is often associated with negative connotations.
Whatโs the difference in the tone of formality between plan and scheme?
Plan is generally considered more formal than scheme, which is often used in informal or slang contexts.