What context can I use each word in?
Learn when and how to use these words with these examples!
plotting
Example
The group was plotting their next move in the game. [plotting: verb]
Example
The author spent hours plotting the twists and turns of the mystery novel. [plotting: gerund or present participle]
scheming
Example
The villain was always scheming to take over the kingdom. [scheming: verb]
Example
The politician spent months scheming to win the election. [scheming: gerund or present participle]
Good things to know
Which word is more common?
Scheming is more commonly used than plotting in everyday language, especially in negative contexts. Plotting is less common and often used in creative or neutral contexts.
Whatโs the difference in the tone of formality between plotting and scheming?
Both plotting and scheming can be used in formal and informal contexts, but scheming is more likely to be used in negative or informal contexts, while plotting is more likely to be used in creative or neutral contexts.