scheming way

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "scheming way" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used to describe a manner or method that is characterized by secretive or underhanded planning, often with a negative connotation. Example: "She approached the project in a scheming way, always looking for ways to outsmart her competitors."

✓ Grammatically correct

Wiki

News & Media

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

1 human-written examples

Lane explained "Kylie sees an opportunity for a better life, but not in a money-grubbing, scheming way.

Wikipedia

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

54 human-written examples

The public treats rape victims as alternately pathetic and scheming but either way suspect, too dumb to avoid getting drugged and used, but clever and vindictive enough to coordinate an elaborate group lie just because we don't like some guy.

The Guardian - Opinion

These scheming "pollies" covet our superior way of life – our roundabouts, colourful science museums and taxpayer-funded parliamentary pensions – and they employ nefarious tactics to gain passage to our shores.

The Guardian - Opinion

The play, directed by Hamilton Clancy (who at a recent performance stepped in as Hastings to replace an ill actor; he acted ably, with nary a look at the script he held) is best at the beginning and the conclusion, when this oily and scheming villain is clawing his way to the top, and then is unable to stop his fated fall.

The New York Times

His long, scheming wait for the top job appeared to have been triumphantly vindicated.

The Economist

That revelation disgusts Wilbur in a big way ("Charlotte is fierce, brutal, scheming," he reflects), but he comes to accept that this is the way of nature.

The New York Times

Lady Sylvia Hermon referred to the scheme as "these tawdry, scheming, dirty little letters".

BBC

The colorful and scheming Vermilion, a "grotesque, big-nosed incubus," somehow charms his way into Isaac's life and impresses upon him the world's dire need for a restorative, nonalcoholic tonic.

The New York Times - Books

The scheming men who have placed temptation in the women's path do not get off scot-free, however.

The New York Times

And President Bush was soon out there ridiculing the way the tax cut was programmed to expire, implying that the expiration date was imposed by scheming liberals, when in fact it was a trick perpetrated by his own Congressional allies.

The New York Times

You know that gross, hiccupping, gasping-for-breath way that kids cry when they fall down and it's like the whole world is just this big, scheming shithole and life's not worth living?

Vice

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When describing a character or action as being done in a "scheming way", ensure that the context provides sufficient evidence or hints to support the characterization. Avoid using it gratuitously.

Common error

Be cautious when using "scheming way" in contexts that require neutrality. The phrase carries a negative connotation and can introduce bias into your writing. Consider more neutral alternatives if objectivity is crucial.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "scheming way" functions as an adverbial modifier, describing the manner in which an action is performed. Ludwig AI confirms its usability in written English, indicating it is a valid, though not frequently used, construction.

Expression frequency: Rare

Frequent in

News & Media

50%

Wiki

50%

Formal & Business

0%

Less common in

Science

0%

Encyclopedias

0%

Academia

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The phrase "scheming way" describes a manner characterized by underhanded planning and manipulation. As Ludwig AI indicates, it is grammatically correct but rarely used. Its primary function is to express disapproval or suspicion, fitting best in neutral to informal contexts, particularly in news and media, where it can add a critical edge to descriptions of actions or behaviors. When using "scheming way", ensure the context justifies its negative connotation and consider more neutral alternatives if objectivity is paramount. Related phrases like "underhand way" or "devious approach" may offer more appropriate nuances depending on the intended meaning.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

underhand way

Emphasizes the secret and dishonest nature of the method, similar to "scheming".

conspiratorial way

Highlights the element of secret plotting and collaboration.

insidious way

Replaces "scheming" with a term suggesting a gradual and subtle harmfulness.

treacherous way

Highlights the deceitful and unreliable aspects of the approach.

orchestrated way

Focuses on the carefully planned and coordinated nature of the approach.

plotted way

Emphasizes the planned and intentional nature of the actions, focusing on a detailed plan.

outrageous way

Replaces "scheming" with a term suggesting shocking or unconventional methods.

scandalous way

Substitutes "scheming" with an adjective implying actions that cause public outrage.

shameful way

Suggests a method that is disgraceful and morally wrong.

disgraceful way

Similar to "shameful", but with a stronger emphasis on the loss of respect.

FAQs

How can I use "scheming way" in a sentence?

You can use "scheming way" to describe someone's behavior or approach as cunning and underhanded, for example: "She approached the negotiation in a "scheming way", always looking for an advantage."

What are some alternatives to "scheming way"?

Alternatives include phrases like "cunning manner", "devious approach", or "underhand way", depending on the specific nuance you want to convey.

Is it always negative to describe something as a "scheming way"?

Yes, describing something as a "scheming way" generally carries a negative connotation, implying that the approach involves secret and possibly unethical planning.

When is it appropriate to use the phrase "scheming way" in writing?

It is appropriate when you want to emphasize the manipulative and underhanded nature of someone's actions or plans. Ensure the context supports this negative characterization.