elaborate scheme

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase 'elaborate scheme' is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used when describing something that requires a lot of planning and detail in order to be successful. For example, "The criminal mastermind devised an elaborate scheme to steal the jewels from the museum."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Encyclopedias

Wiki

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

57 human-written examples

It was an elaborate scheme.

The New Yorker

"This wasn't an elaborate scheme.

The New York Times

"He had some elaborate scheme to meet," Greenwald said.

The Guardian

So why did Mr. Moss engineer such an elaborate scheme?

The New York Times - Style

The consultant was shocked at the untidy office and planned an elaborate scheme of redecoration.

The New Yorker

I doubted that either of the women were privy to the elaborate scheme.

The New York Times - Magazine

And they have an elaborate scheme for selecting the theme and books for the year.

The New York Times - Magazine

As this setup is introduced, the elements of an elaborate scheme begin to appear.

The New York Times - Books

But the Saudi terrorist, Bassam, is only one doomed figure in this book's elaborate scheme.

The New York Times - Books

The heart of the movie follows Jason and Kaylee's elaborate scheme to bring down Marty.

The New York Times

Several groups in Italy, believing the public to be dupes of an elaborate scheme, filed formal complaints.

The New Yorker

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Consider the connotation: "elaborate scheme" can imply something underhanded or overly complicated, so ensure it fits the context of your writing.

Common error

Avoid using "elaborate scheme" when a simpler term like "plan" or "strategy" would suffice. Overusing it can make your writing sound unnecessarily dramatic or convoluted.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "elaborate scheme" functions primarily as a noun phrase, often serving as the object of a verb or the complement of a preposition. As Ludwig AI confirms, the phrase is grammatically sound and widely used.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

75%

Encyclopedias

12%

Wiki

7%

Less common in

Science

2%

Formal & Business

2%

Reference

2%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The phrase "elaborate scheme" is a common and grammatically correct way to describe a detailed and complex plan, often with a hint of deception. Ludwig AI confirms its usability and the examples show its versatility across various contexts, primarily in News & Media. When using this phrase, be mindful of its potential negative connotation and consider alternatives like "complex plan" or "detailed strategy" if you want to avoid any implication of wrongdoing. While the phrase is adaptable across registers, overuse in simple contexts should be avoided.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

complex plan

Focuses on the complexity of the plan, omitting the potential for deception implied in "scheme".

detailed strategy

Highlights the strategic aspect, implying a careful consideration of steps and resources.

intricate plot

Emphasizes the complex and interwoven nature of the plan, often used in narrative contexts.

sophisticated strategy

Highlights the advanced and refined nature of the planning.

convoluted stratagem

Implies a plan that is unnecessarily complex and potentially confusing, intended to deceive or outwit.

meticulous design

Stresses the careful attention to detail in the plan's creation, suggesting precision and thoroughness.

artful contrivance

Highlights the clever and inventive nature of the plan, often with a hint of artificiality or manipulation.

grandiose design

Implies that the scheme is particularly ambitious and elaborate

cunning ploy

Highlights the deceitful and manipulative elements of a carefully crafted trick.

Byzantine arrangement

Refers to a plan that is complex, secretive, and difficult to understand, reminiscent of the Byzantine Empire's intricate political systems.

FAQs

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

You can use "elaborate scheme" to describe a complex plan, often with a connotation of deception or trickery. For example: "The con artists devised an "elaborate scheme" to defraud investors."

What are some alternatives to "elaborate scheme"?

Alternatives include "complex plan", "detailed strategy", or "intricate plot", depending on the specific nuance you want to convey.

Is there a negative connotation to "elaborate scheme"?

Yes, "elaborate scheme" often implies a plan that is overly complex, possibly deceitful, or even unethical. Consider using a more neutral term if you want to avoid this implication.

What's the difference between "elaborate scheme" and "detailed plan"?

While both refer to a plan with many details, "elaborate scheme" suggests a higher level of complexity and often implies a degree of cunning or deception, whereas "detailed plan" simply emphasizes thoroughness.