grand schemes

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "grand schemes" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used to refer to ambitious plans or elaborate ideas, often with a sense of idealism or impracticality. Example: "The architect presented his grand schemes for the new city development, envisioning a futuristic landscape filled with green spaces and innovative buildings."

✓ Grammatically correct

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

59 human-written examples

She soon develops a soft spot for her new granddaughter, however, and schemes to steal her from Sulfia.

The New Yorker

Mrs. O'Hair, who left Baltimore after the decision, was later gruesomely killed, along with a son and granddaughter, in a kidnapping scheme devised by a former employee.

The New York Times

Two years ago, Gary Simmons, 60, from Wing, N.D., hatched a scheme with his granddaughter Kaitlin, 9, to get a few relatives to meet in Colorado for the Bolder Boulder 10-kilometer run.

The New York Times

To give her peace, the Duchess develops a scheme of spiriting her granddaughter out of the country by having her visit their plantation in Virginia.

Wikipedia

Rosa's schemes to abort her daughter Sulfia's fetus after learning of the pregnancy, take her granddaughter Aminat after the baby's birth, and move the family out of the Soviet Union eventually lead to tragedy.

Stanford University

"Why?" her granddaughter asked.

The New York Times

"That's my granddaughter.

The New York Times

My granddaughter is 5.

The New York Times

Mandela's granddaughter, Nandi Mandela.

Independent

Love Yvette, children and granddaughter.

The New York Times

"Because I love my granddaughter".

The New York Times

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "grand schemes" to describe plans that are not only large in scope but also often perceived as somewhat impractical or overly ambitious. It often carries a connotation of idealism.

Common error

Avoid using "grand schemes" in highly formal or professional settings where a more neutral term like "strategic initiatives" or "major projects" might be more appropriate. The phrase can sometimes sound dismissive or overly critical.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "grand schemes" typically functions as a noun phrase. It refers to elaborate and ambitious plans or projects. Given the absence of exact matches in Ludwig, similar phrases would be used to describe complex undertakings.

Expression frequency: Missing

Frequent in

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Formal & Business

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Less common in

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Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "grand schemes" is a phrase used to describe ambitious and often idealistic plans. While grammatically correct, as suggested by Ludwig AI, its frequency is limited and its connotation can range from neutral to slightly critical. When writing, consider the context and audience to determine if more formal alternatives like "strategic initiatives" or "major projects" are more appropriate. Understanding these nuances ensures effective and precise communication.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

ambitious projects

Focuses on the scale and intent of the projects.

elaborate plans

Emphasizes the detailed and intricate nature of the plans.

grandiose designs

Highlights the impressive and often impractical nature of the designs.

visionary ideas

Stresses the innovative and forward-thinking aspect of the ideas.

sweeping initiatives

Indicates the broad scope and impact of the initiatives.

audacious strategies

Highlights the bold and daring nature of the strategies.

imaginative concepts

Focuses on the creativity and originality of the concepts.

ambitious undertakings

Emphasizes the challenging and demanding nature of the undertakings.

bold endeavors

Highlights the courage and risk involved in the endeavors.

extensive programs

Indicates the comprehensive and far-reaching nature of the programs.

FAQs

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

You can use "grand schemes" to describe ambitious and often somewhat unrealistic plans. For example: "The company's "ambitious projects" were ultimately too costly to implement."

What are some alternatives to the phrase "grand schemes"?

Depending on the context, you can use alternatives like "elaborate plans", "visionary ideas", or "ambitious projects".

When is it appropriate to use the phrase "grand schemes"?

The phrase "grand schemes" is suitable when discussing plans that are large in scale and potentially impractical or overly ambitious. It's often used in contexts where there's a degree of skepticism or criticism involved.

What is the connotation of using the phrase "grand schemes"?

Using "grand schemes" often implies that the plans are not only ambitious but also somewhat unrealistic or overly elaborate. It can carry a slightly negative connotation, suggesting that the plans may not be feasible.