a clever scheme

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "a clever scheme" is correct and usable in written English.
You can use it to describe a plan or strategy that is intelligent or resourceful, often with a connotation of being somewhat cunning or deceptive. Example: "The detective uncovered a clever scheme that the criminals had devised to evade capture."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Encyclopedias

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

12 human-written examples

It is a clever scheme that is also doomed.

The Economist

He also proposed a clever scheme to measure the size and distance of the Sun.

Encyclopedia Britannica

Perhaps the terms are a clever scheme to get student athletes to learn physics.

The New York Times

But although Motion has devised a clever scheme, by the end it has imploded.

The New York Times - Books

A clever scheme, perhaps, but not one that is likely to pass the test of the markets.

The Economist

In summary, Dilnot has crafted a clever scheme that will move us forward from where we are today.

The Guardian - Opinion

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

46 human-written examples

On paper, Mason's trade was a deliciously clever scheme that made perfect sense.

The New York Times

Although each algorithm will require a specific thresholding scheme, ZNMI allows for a clever thresholding scheme simply by its construction (kindly pointed out by an anonymous reviewer).

Plosone

Devilishly clever scheme to make America a one-party state.

Huffington Post

And in what seemed like either a clever marketing scheme or a desperate gambit, Mr. Brucker then pulled out prototypes of his latest project: a Beverly Hills credit card.

The New York Times

"So this way, they put welfare people to work -- it sounds like a clever political scheme, but they're still scabs.

The New York Times

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When describing a plan or strategy, use "a clever scheme" to suggest intelligence and resourcefulness. However, be mindful of the potential connotation of cunning or deception.

Common error

While "a clever scheme" is a valid phrase, avoid using it excessively in your writing. Vary your vocabulary by using synonyms like "an ingenious plan" or "a smart strategy" to keep your writing engaging and prevent it from sounding repetitive.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "a clever scheme" functions as a noun phrase, where "clever" is an adjective modifying the noun "scheme". It typically acts as a subject, object, or complement within a sentence, describing a plan or strategy.

Expression frequency: Common

Frequent in

News & Media

50%

Science

25%

Encyclopedias

17%

Less common in

Formal & Business

8%

Wiki

0%

Social Media

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "a clever scheme" is a noun phrase used to describe an intelligent and resourceful plan or strategy. Ludwig AI confirms it is correct and usable in written English. The phrase is commonly found in news articles, scientific publications, and encyclopedias, suggesting a neutral level of formality. While "a clever scheme" is generally acceptable, it is advisable to vary your language with synonyms like "an ingenious plan" or "a smart strategy" to avoid repetition. Its communicative purpose is to highlight the ingenuity behind the idea and often implies a degree of effectiveness. Be mindful of the potential connotation of cunning or deception when using this phrase.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

an ingenious plan

Replaces "clever" with "ingenious", emphasizing inventiveness and resourcefulness.

a smart strategy

Substitutes "scheme" with "strategy", focusing on a deliberate plan to achieve a goal.

a brilliant idea

Replaces "scheme" with "idea" highlighting the high quality of the concept.

a cunning plot

Emphasizes the craftiness and potentially deceptive nature of the scheme.

a shrewd tactic

Highlights the practical intelligence and resourcefulness behind the approach.

a crafty maneuver

Implies skillful and often subtle manipulation to achieve a particular aim.

an artful dodge

Suggests a clever way of avoiding a problem or difficulty.

a resourceful approach

Focuses on the ability to find clever ways to overcome difficulties.

a strategic design

Highlights the planned and purposeful nature of the scheme.

a tactical ploy

Suggests a clever move within a specific situation, often in a competitive context.

FAQs

How can I use "a clever scheme" in a sentence?

You can use "a clever scheme" to describe a plan that is intelligent and resourceful. For example, "The detective uncovered "a clever scheme" that the criminals had devised to evade capture".

What are some alternatives to "a clever scheme"?

You can use alternatives like "an ingenious plan", "a smart strategy", or "a cunning plot" depending on the context.

Is "a clever scheme" formal or informal?

"A clever scheme" is generally considered neutral in tone and can be used in both formal and informal contexts, although it might be more common in news or general writing.

When might "a cunning plot" be a better choice than "a clever scheme"?

While both phrases describe an intelligent plan, "a cunning plot" implies a degree of deception or manipulation that is not necessarily present in "a clever scheme". Choose "a cunning plot" when you want to emphasize the deceptive nature of the plan.