a complex scheme

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "a complex scheme" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used to describe a plan or system that is intricate and involves many interconnected parts or elements. Example: "The engineers presented a complex scheme for the new transportation system that would integrate multiple modes of travel."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Encyclopedias

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

54 human-written examples

Grisham is usually unrivalled at laying out a complex scheme in a clear and exciting way.

The Guardian - Books

Teapot Dome is shorthand for a complex scheme involving multiple players moving a lot of shells at lightning speed.

The New York Times - Books

A complex scheme known as the black market peso exchange (BMPE) was used to launder the cash.

The Guardian - Business

Six people and six Belize firms were accused in a federal indictment of a complex scheme to launder money.

The New York Times

For multi-input multi-output system, approximate dynamic programming needs a complex scheme.

Applied Mathematics and Computation

So, here you would think, is an open goal – a court defeat for a Scottish company that used a complex scheme to wipe £11m off its tax bill.

The Guardian - Business

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

6 human-written examples

This approach can involve extensive numerical integrations and a relatively complex scheme for optimizing the failure mechanism to obtain a least upper bound collapse load.

Ocean Engineering

When a CH3CN[ 31] solution of 2 a was treated with Et3N, a bathochromic shift was observed, which indicates the formation of a donor acceptor complex (Scheme 4 B).

Angewandte Chemie - International Edition

"It was a very complex scheme," said Rose Gill Hearn, the commissioner of the Department of Investigation.

The New York Times

Using a less complex scheme under Wade Phillips, the defensive coordinator, Denver held its opponents to two or fewer touchdowns in 13 games and did not allow a running back to gain 100 yards during the regular season.

The New York Times - Sports

Halas and his coaches, primarily Clark Shaughnessy, invented a rather complex scheme building on the traditional T-formation, but needed the right quarterback to run it properly.

Wikipedia

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When describing something as "a complex scheme", be prepared to offer some clarifying details. Briefly outlining the core components or intended goals can improve clarity for your audience.

Common error

Avoid burying the actors within "a complex scheme" in passive voice. Directly stating who designed or implemented the scheme enhances accountability and clarity.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "a complex scheme" functions as a noun phrase, often serving as the object of a verb or the subject of a clause. Ludwig examples illustrate its use in describing intricate plans or systems.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

70%

Science

15%

Encyclopedias

5%

Less common in

Wiki

5%

Formal & Business

3%

Social Media

2%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, the phrase "a complex scheme" is a commonly used noun phrase that describes an intricate plan or system. As evidenced by Ludwig's AI analysis, the phrase is grammatically correct and appears frequently in news, science and encyclopedic contexts. When employing this phrase, be mindful of clarity and avoid overuse of passive voice to ensure effective communication. Consider alternatives like "a convoluted plan" or "an intricate strategy" for nuanced expression.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

a convoluted plan

Emphasizes the intricate and potentially confusing nature of the plan.

an intricate strategy

Focuses on the detailed and elaborate aspects of the strategy.

a sophisticated system

Highlights the advanced and refined nature of the system.

an elaborate design

Stresses the careful and detailed construction of the design.

a complicated arrangement

Indicates the complexity and interconnectedness of the arrangement.

a labyrinthine plot

Implies a confusing and difficult-to-navigate plot.

a Byzantine structure

Suggests an overly complex and bureaucratic structure.

a tangled web

Conveys the interconnected and potentially problematic nature of the situation.

an involved process

Highlights the numerous steps and elements of the process.

a multifaceted approach

Emphasizes the multiple aspects and angles of the approach.

FAQs

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

You can use "a complex scheme" to describe an intricate plan or system, such as "The company devised "a complex scheme" to avoid paying taxes."

What are some alternatives to "a complex scheme"?

Alternatives include "a convoluted plan", "an intricate strategy", or "a sophisticated system", depending on the specific nuance you wish to convey.

Is it better to say "a complex scheme" or "a complicated plan"?

Both phrases are acceptable. "A complex scheme" often suggests a degree of intentionality or design, whereas "a complicated plan" might simply refer to something that is difficult to understand.

What makes a scheme "complex"?

A scheme is considered "complex" when it involves many interconnected parts, layers, or steps, often making it difficult to understand or execute without significant effort and expertise.