scheme

[skiːm]

scheme Definition

• 1. a plan or idea for achieving something, especially something that is not easily or immediately achievable
• 2. a large-scale systematic plan or arrangement for attaining some particular object or putting a particular idea into effect
• 3. a secret or dishonest plan; a plot

Using scheme: Examples

Take a moment to familiarize yourself with how "scheme" can be used in various situations through the following examples!

• Example

  The government has launched a new scheme to reduce unemployment.

• Example

  The company's investment scheme was highly successful.

• Example

  He was involved in a scheme to defraud the bank.

• Example

  The scheme to overthrow the government was discovered by the authorities.

scheme Synonyms and Antonyms

Synonyms for scheme

• plan
• strategy
• program
• project
• design

Antonyms for scheme

• disorganization
• chaos

Idioms Using scheme

• the best-laid schemes of mice and men

  even the most carefully made plans can go wrong

  Example

  He had everything planned out perfectly, but as they say, the best-laid schemes of mice and men often go awry.

• in on the scheme

  involved in a secret or dishonest plan

  Example

  She suspected that her colleagues were in on the scheme to defraud the company.

• have a scheme up one's sleeve

  have a secret plan or idea that one is keeping hidden until the right moment

  Example

  He always has a scheme up his sleeve, so I wouldn't underestimate him.

Phrases with scheme

• get-rich-quick scheme

  a plan or idea for making a lot of money quickly and easily, often with little effort or investment

  Example

  The seminar promised to teach attendees a get-rich-quick scheme, but it turned out to be a scam.

• color scheme

  a planned combination of colors used in a particular design or work of art

  Example

  The interior designer suggested a color scheme of blues and greens for the living room.

• pension scheme

  a plan for providing retirement income to employees, typically involving contributions from both the employer and the employee

  Example

  The company offers a generous pension scheme to its employees.

Origins of scheme

from Old Norse 'skima', meaning 'brightness'

📌

Summary: scheme in Brief

The term 'scheme' [skiːm] refers to a plan or idea for achieving something, often on a large scale. It can be a legitimate program or project, as in 'The government has launched a new scheme to reduce unemployment,' or a secret or dishonest plot, as in 'He was involved in a scheme to defraud the bank.' 'Scheme' extends into phrases like 'get-rich-quick scheme,' and idioms like 'the best-laid schemes of mice and men,' denoting the unpredictability of even the most carefully made plans.