B2noun2K

Scheme

UK /["/skiːm/"]/US /["/skiːm/"]/

Definition

a plan or system for doing or organizing something

In simple words: A plan or program to do something, especially something clever or dishonest.

Examples

The engineer presented his scheme for the new transportation system.
He had a clever scheme to save money on his monthly bills.
The company implemented a scheme to improve employee productivity.
They discovered a scheme to defraud investors during the investigation.
The plot of the movie involved a complex scheme that kept the audience guessing.

Usage notes

Use 'scheme' when discussing organized plans or arrangements, particularly in contexts of strategy or trickery. It's less appropriate in casual conversations unless referring to a specific plan.

Grammar pattern

scheme + object

Memory hint

Think of 'scheme' as a secret plan, like a scheme to win a game.

Collocations

major
multi-million-pound
ambitious
have
come up with
design
offer something
provide something
allow something
in a/the scheme
under a/the scheme
scheme for
crazy
hare-brained
elaborate
concoct
devise
dream up
involve something

Synonyms

plan
strategy
design
project
plot

Antonyms

spontaneity
disorganization

Common mistakes

Using 'scheme' as a verb instead of a noun.
Confusing 'scheme' with 'program' in contexts that require clarification.
Assuming 'scheme' only has negative connotations.