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scheming

adjective

/ˈski mɪŋ/

IPA:

Dictionary definition of scheming

Making secret plans or plotting devious strategies to achieve personal goals or to manipulate others.
"The scheming coworker always seemed to have ulterior motives behind every action."

Detailed meaning of scheming

It describes a person who engages in calculated and cunning behavior, often with the intention of gaining an advantage or controlling a situation to their benefit. 'Scheming' individuals are often characterized by their craftiness, deceitfulness, and strategic thinking. They carefully devise and execute plans, often keeping their true intentions hidden or masked. Scheming behavior can involve manipulating others, exploiting vulnerabilities, or engaging in underhanded tactics to achieve desired outcomes. 'Scheming' can be associated with negative connotations, suggesting a lack of moral scruples or a disregard for the well-being of others. It implies a manipulative nature and a willingness to deceive or betray others to further one's own interests.

Example sentences containing scheming

1. The scheming student crafted a plan to steal the final exam's answers.
2. She cast a wary eye at the scheming politician during the debate.
3. John's scheming nature made trust in him almost impossible.
4. The scheming wizard whispered dark enchantments into the night.
5. She smiled, revealing a scheming mind behind her innocent look.
6. In the moonlight, the scheming thief slipped into the mansion.

History and etymology of scheming

The word 'scheming' traces its origins to the Old French term 'esquime,' which emerged in the 14th century. This Old French word, in turn, derived from the Late Latin word 'schemare,' which meant 'to form a plan or project.' The Latin root 'schema' referred to a plan or outline. Over time, as the English language evolved, 'scheming' emerged as an adjective to describe individuals who engage in the crafty and cunning formulation of secret plans or devious strategies to further their personal goals or manipulate others. This etymology reflects the notion of carefully constructing plans or schemes, often with an element of deceit or intrigue.

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Further usage examples of scheming

1. A scheming intellect lurked beneath his charming exterior.
2. The hero saw through the villain's scheming ploys effortlessly.
3. The scheming detective fabricated evidence to frame the suspect.
4. With a scheming grin, the hacker bypassed the firewall.
5. Beneath friendly smiles, the scheming spies exchanged secret codes.
6. The scheming merchant overcharged for goods in the desperate town.
7. Their scheming ways became apparent to all, causing outrage.
8. The scheming assistant plotted to overthrow her unkind boss.
9. Every scheming attempt to sabotage her rival had failed.
10. A world of scheming minds makes trust a valuable commodity.
11. The scheming general ordered a surprise midnight attack.
12. In the dark alleys, scheming criminals plotted their next move.
13. The king was oblivious to the scheming plots around him.
14. With a scheming mind, he manipulated every situation to his favor.
15. She was known for her beauty and her scheming ways.
16. Scheming minds wove a complex web of deceit in the city.
17. The scheming lawyer twisted the law to win his cases.
18. Alice realized her scheming sibling had tricked her again.
19. He had a scheming way, cloaking sinister motives with charm.
20. A scheming look in her eyes, she unfolded her master plan.
21. Behind the curtain, scheming plotters whispered, swords unsheathed.
22. The realm was unaware of the scheming witch’s ominous spell.
23. Amidst the crowd, scheming eyes watched the prince closely.
24. A city of wealth and power, breeding grounds for scheming minds.