Scheming: meaning, definitions and examples

Used to describe someone who is making secret plans to achieve a particular goal, often by manipulating or deceiving others. This word typically carries a negative connotation.

• She was always scheming to get her way in the company
• The villain's scheming ways were uncovered by the hero

Typically used to describe someone who is making secret plans, often for an unlawful or harmful purpose. This term has a negative connotation and is similar to scheming but can imply a more specific or elaborate set of plans.

• The rebels were plotting an overthrow of the government
• She was accused of plotting against her boss

Describes someone who secretly cooperates or plots to do something harmful or illegal. This word has a very strong negative connotation and implies sneaky or treacherous behavior.

• The conniving politician was caught in a scandal
• He was conniving with his accomplices to embezzle funds

Involves organizing and preparing for a future event or activity in a methodical way, typically without any negative implications. This is a neutral or positive term.

• She spent hours planning the perfect vacation
• They are planning a new project for next year

Similar to 'scheming' but highlights the person's craftiness and secretive nature in forming plots and plans.

• Janet was always scheming, thinking of ways to get promoted over her colleagues.
• His scheming mind was always one step ahead of everyone else's.

Describes someone conspiring to do something immoral, illegal, or harmful. It suggests secret cooperation and silent support for wrongdoings.

• The conniving manager was caught stealing from the company.
• She was tired of her conniving coworker who always tried to sabotage others.

Describes someone who influences or controls others in a clever or unscrupulous way, often with selfish intentions. It implies psychological manipulation rather than physical force.

• She's very manipulative, always playing with people's emotions to get what she wants.
• The manipulative leader convinced his followers to abandon their critical thinking.

Refers to someone who is deliberately dishonest and intends to mislead or trick others. It strongly implies an intent to lie or cheat.

• His deceitful tactics during the negotiation led to a lack of trust.
• The deceitful salesman's promises turned out to be all lies.