underhanded scheme

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "underhanded scheme" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used to describe a secretive or dishonest plan or tactic, often with negative connotations. Example: "The company's underhanded scheme to manipulate the market was eventually exposed by investigative journalists."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Wiki

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

60 human-written examples

Montgomery Burns is a powerful tycoon given to underhanded schemes.

The New Yorker

When two women meet, they're expected to battle it out for the attentions of a good man, staying honest while parrying underhanded schemes.

The New York Times - Arts

The sainted William Shawn, our editor from 1952 to 1987, forbade the passive use of "intrigued" to mean interested, amused, or fascinated, permitting it only in its active meaning of engaging in underhanded scheming).

The New Yorker

Unfortunately, due to the little girls naivety on such matters, these underhanded schemes are never effective; uninvited people usually get mixed in with the planned activity much to Jumbo's annoyance.

Wikipedia

In an underhanded strategy, Republicans then ran Republican supporters as Democratic candidates in the recall races.

The Guardian - Opinion

"We're underhanded here.

The New Yorker

"It was underhanded, Serena.

The New Yorker

It's a bit underhanded really.

The New York Times - Arts

Mr. Obama called that support "underhanded" and deserving of "further scrutiny".

The New York Times

We were shocked by how divisive and underhanded some Muslim clerics were.

Independent

But a thing doesn't have to be underhanded to feel cold-blooded.

The New Yorker

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "underhanded scheme", ensure the context clearly indicates the unethical or deceitful nature of the plan. Avoid using it in situations where the action is merely unconventional or innovative.

Common error

Avoid using "underhanded scheme" to describe actions that are simply aggressive or competitive. The phrase implies a level of deception or illegality, not just assertive behavior.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "underhanded scheme" primarily functions as a noun phrase, where 'underhanded' modifies 'scheme'. Ludwig AI confirms the correctness and usability of this phrase in written English. The adjective 'underhanded' characterizes the scheme as being deceitful or unethical.

Expression frequency: Uncommon

Frequent in

News & Media

60%

Wiki

20%

Science

20%

Less common in

Formal & Business

0%

Encyclopedias

0%

Social Media

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The phrase "underhanded scheme" is used to describe a plan characterized by dishonesty or unethical behavior. According to Ludwig AI, the phrase is grammatically correct and commonly found in News & Media contexts. While alternatives such as "deceptive tactic" or "sly maneuver" exist, "underhanded scheme" specifically implies a clandestine and morally questionable plan. When employing this phrase, ensure that the context clearly reflects the deceitful nature of the action. The term is neutral in formality and can be used in a wide variety of situations to denote something is not right.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

deceptive tactic

Replaces "underhanded" with "deceptive" and "scheme" with "tactic", focusing on the misleading nature of the action.

sly maneuver

Substitutes "underhanded" with "sly" and "scheme" with "maneuver", emphasizing the cunning aspect of the action.

dishonest plot

Replaces "underhanded" with "dishonest" and "scheme" with "plot", highlighting the lack of integrity involved.

sneaky strategy

Substitutes "underhanded" with "sneaky" and "scheme" with "strategy", focusing on the secretive nature of the action.

treacherous plan

Replaces "underhanded" with "treacherous" and "scheme" with "plan", emphasizing the betrayal involved.

corrupt practice

Substitutes "underhanded scheme" with a phrase that focuses on established, unethical behaviour.

Machiavellian tactic

Uses a historical reference to describe a manipulative strategy.

illicit arrangement

Focuses on the illegal aspect, replacing with terms indicating something forbidden.

shady deal

Replaces "underhanded scheme" with a more informal expression indicating something suspicious.

fraudulent operation

This alternative emphasizes the deceitful and criminal aspect of the plan.

FAQs

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

You can use "underhanded scheme" to describe a deceitful or unethical plan, as in, "The company's "underhanded scheme" to manipulate the market was exposed."

What are some alternatives to using "underhanded scheme"?

Consider using alternatives like "deceptive tactic", "sly maneuver", or "dishonest plot" depending on the specific context.

What distinguishes "underhanded scheme" from a regular plan?

"Underhanded scheme" implies a degree of dishonesty and a violation of ethical standards, unlike a regular plan which may simply be strategic or innovative.

Is "underhanded scheme" always negative?

Yes, "underhanded scheme" always carries a negative connotation, suggesting unethical or deceitful behavior. It is not appropriate for describing neutral or positive actions.