a grander scheme

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "a grander scheme" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used when discussing a larger plan or overarching idea that encompasses smaller elements or details. Example: "While the project seems challenging, we must remember that it is part of a grander scheme to improve our community."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Encyclopedias

Wiki

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

9 human-written examples

I want to feel in a grander scheme that I've done something honorable for nature".

The New York Times

Some say the increasing interest in Southwestern ingredients, especially as they are being reinterpreted by a group of young chefs, is here to stay, a continuation of an American fascination with regional cooking, part of a grander scheme to codify a culinary style that is distinctly ours.

The New York Times

Religion gives meaning to human lives by assigning them a certain definite place within a grander scheme or narrative.

SEP

On a grander scheme, we can definitely see it as a contributor to a healthy and vibrant financial sector.

Forbes

If this is so, then meaning and purpose are part of a grander scheme that surpasses religion by needing no transcendent God or the gods.

Huffington Post

This time, Sosa has a grander scheme in mind: He'll screw his old boss, get a solid payout for the clients -- and use his share to quit and leave and take Lujan with him.

Huffington Post

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

51 human-written examples

"It wasn't a grand scheme".

The New York Times - Style

This isn't a grand scheme to throw national elections.

The Washington Post

He also proposed a grand scheme for improving cropping patterns and extending cultivation.

Encyclopedia Britannica

Frank said that scoring spike was not part of a grand scheme.

The New York Times - Sports

He also has a grand scheme for redesigning the world economy (with help from his former pupil, Barack Obama).

The Economist

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When employing the phrase, ensure the larger scheme is clearly defined or implied, allowing the reader to grasp the intended significance of the smaller components.

Common error

Avoid using "a grander scheme" to describe plans that are actually quite limited in scope. This can create a sense of disproportion and undermine your credibility.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "a grander scheme" functions as a noun phrase, often serving as an object of a preposition (e.g., "part of a grander scheme") or as a subject complement. Ludwig confirms it as a grammatically correct expression.

Expression frequency: Uncommon

Frequent in

News & Media

60%

Wiki

20%

Science

10%

Less common in

Encyclopedias

10%

Formal & Business

0%

Social Media

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The phrase "a grander scheme" is a grammatically correct and relatively uncommon expression used to describe a larger, more encompassing plan or purpose. Ludwig confirms its grammatical correctness. Predominantly found in news and media sources, it serves to provide context by showing how individual elements contribute to a more significant whole. While not overly formal, its neutral register makes it suitable for analytical and professional writing. To use it effectively, ensure the larger scheme is clearly defined and avoid overstating its scope.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

a broader vision

This alternative emphasizes the scope of the plan or perspective, focusing on its comprehensive nature.

a larger framework

This highlights the structure that provides context for smaller components.

an overarching strategy

This term emphasizes the strategic and planned nature of the encompassing idea.

a comprehensive plan

This stresses the completeness and thoroughness of the scheme.

the bigger picture

This is a more informal way of referring to the overarching perspective.

the grand design

This suggests a deliberate and significant overall plan, often with a sense of purpose or destiny.

a holistic approach

This highlights the interconnectedness and interdependence of elements within the larger scheme.

a strategic overview

This focuses on the high-level perspective and strategic implications.

an all-encompassing vision

This emphasizes the breadth and inclusiveness of the overall idea.

a master plan

This alternative suggests a detailed and coordinated plan for achieving a significant objective.

FAQs

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

You can use "a grander scheme" to show how individual actions contribute to a larger plan or purpose. For instance, "While each task seems small, they are all part of "a grander scheme" to improve the company's overall efficiency."

What are some alternatives to "a grander scheme"?

Alternatives include "a broader vision", "a larger framework", or "an overarching strategy". The best choice depends on the specific context and the nuance you wish to convey.

What does it mean to say something is "part of a grander scheme"?

It means that the thing in question is not isolated but contributes to a larger, more significant plan or purpose. It suggests that there is a wider context that gives meaning and direction to individual elements.

Is "a grand scheme" the same as "a grander scheme"?

While similar, "a grand scheme" refers to an ambitious plan, while "a grander scheme" suggests that there's a larger, more encompassing plan beyond what's immediately apparent. The latter implies a greater scale or significance.