elaborate schemes

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "elaborate schemes" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used to describe complex or detailed plans, often with a connotation of being intricate or carefully thought out. Example: "The detective uncovered the elaborate schemes that the criminals had devised to evade capture."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Encyclopedias

Science

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

59 human-written examples

There haven't been any elaborate schemes.

The New York Times - Sports

Some contrived elaborate schemes to avoid detection.

The New York Times

We fall in love with elaborate schemes and overlook urgent and basic needs.

The New York Times

More elaborate schemes were devised in order to exploit sophisticated and wealthy victims.

Encyclopedia Britannica

So countries have developed elaborate schemes to attract these forms of capital, too.

Independent

Many are connected by elaborate schemes of rhyme and half-rhyme.

The Guardian - Books

George Steinbrenner and baseball's other heavy wallets never worry about such elaborate schemes.

The New York Times - Sports

The agency, Mr. McKessy said, has already received an uptick in quality tips, including lengthy letters laying our elaborate schemes.

The New York Times

In that case, the Clinton administration's intensified manhunt – with all its gadgets, elite units and elaborate schemes – came too late.

The Guardian

Each of these surviving complaints involves allegations of elaborate schemes to transform weakness in AIG's core insurance operations into other, less damaging types of losses.

The Economist

But Stockhausen seldom let himself become a prisoner of the system, even as he devised ever more elaborate schemes of ordering.

The New Yorker

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When describing a plan or series of actions that are complex and carefully designed, "elaborate schemes" can add emphasis. However, be mindful of its potential negative connotation of deceit or trickery.

Common error

Avoid using "elaborate schemes" in contexts where a neutral description of complex plans is needed. Alternatives like "detailed strategies" or "complex designs" may be more appropriate to avoid unintended negative implications.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "elaborate schemes" functions primarily as a noun phrase. It typically acts as the object of a verb or the subject of a sentence, describing complex and detailed plans. Ludwig AI confirms its correct usage.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

64%

Science

18%

Encyclopedias

10%

Less common in

Wiki

2%

Formal & Business

6%

Reference

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, the phrase "elaborate schemes" is a grammatically sound and frequently used noun phrase that describes complex and detailed plans, often with a hint of intricacy or potential deception. According to Ludwig AI, the phrase is correct and usable in written English. It is most commonly found in news and media, scientific publications, and encyclopedias, indicating a formal to neutral register. While generally acceptable, it's essential to consider the potential negative connotation and choose alternative phrases like "complex plans" or "detailed strategies" in neutral contexts. When writing, be mindful of the subtle implications and aim for clarity and precision in your descriptions.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

complex plans

Focuses on the intricacy of the plans, omitting the potential negative connotation of "schemes".

intricate designs

Emphasizes the detailed and complex nature of the design, rather than the planning aspect.

detailed strategies

Highlights the strategic aspect and the level of detail involved.

sophisticated tactics

Emphasizes the advanced and refined nature of the tactics used.

complex machinations

Emphasizes the manipulative aspect, often with a negative connotation.

convoluted plots

Highlights the complicated and often confusing nature of the plot.

Byzantine arrangements

Suggests intricate and often secretive arrangements, similar to the complexity of the Byzantine empire.

tortuous strategies

Emphasizes the indirect and complex nature of the strategies.

devious contrivances

Highlights the cunning and inventive nature of the plans, usually with a negative connotation.

artful stratagems

Emphasizes the skillful and clever nature of the schemes, often used in a historical or literary context.

FAQs

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

"Elaborate schemes" typically refer to complex and detailed plans. For example: "The criminals devised "elaborate schemes" to evade capture."

What can I say instead of "elaborate schemes"?

You can use alternatives like "complex plans", "detailed strategies", or "intricate designs" depending on the context.

When is it appropriate to use "elaborate schemes"?

Use "elaborate schemes" when describing plans that are not only complex but also involve a significant amount of detail and potentially a degree of cunning or trickery. Be aware of the potentially negative connotation.

What's the difference between "elaborate schemes" and "simple plans"?

"Elaborate schemes" imply a high degree of complexity and detail, often with a hidden purpose or goal, whereas "simple plans" are straightforward and easy to understand.