Thesaurus.com
Dictionary.com
Showing results for scheme. Search instead for schme.
Definitions

scheme

[skeem] / skim /
NOUN
course of action
Synonyms
STRONGEST
arrangement blueprint design device game plan pattern plan program project proposal strategy system theory
STRONG
chart codification contrivance diagram disposition draft expedient layout order ordering outline presentation proposition purpose schedule schema suggestion tactics
Antonyms
STRONGEST
disorder disorganization
NOUN
plot, maneuver to get result
Synonyms
STRONGEST
action conspiracy game plan ploy practice scenario
STRONG
angle brainchild cabal dodge frame-up game gimmick hookup hustle hype intrigue layout machination picture pitch proposition ruse scene setup shift story stratagem subterfuge tactics trick twist
WEAK
covin put-up job

Example Sentences

Examples are provided to illustrate real-world usage of words in context. Any opinions expressed do not reflect the views of Dictionary.com.

The motive behind the company's new scheme is simple according to Hal Stevenson, director of policy at Lime.

From BBC • Apr. 3, 2026

The scheme started after the EU's Common Agricultural Policy began calculating subsidies based on land instead of livestock in 2014.

From Barron's • Apr. 3, 2026

It is, in other words, completely meaningless in the grand scheme of things.

From MarketWatch • Apr. 3, 2026

The Trump administration is preparing to overhaul its tariff scheme for steel and aluminum, The Wall Street Journal reported this week, but the changes aren’t expected to affect imported commodity-grade metals.

From The Wall Street Journal • Apr. 2, 2026

I had thought he would hardly speak to me, and I was certain he had given up the pursuit of his matrimonial scheme: the sequel showed I was mistaken on both points.

From "Jane Eyre" by Charlotte Brontë

From Roget's 21st Century Thesaurus, Third Edition Copyright © 2013 by the Philip Lief Group.