Have designs on something
verb phrase
To plan secretly to do something, especially something that could harm others.
He has designs on the company, and I think he's planning to take over.
Often appears as...
- have designs on a company
- have designs on someone's position
Usage tips
Disapproving
Idiomatic
verb phrase
To be attracted to or desire someone or something especially for personal gain.
Sam has designs on Laura, but she's not interested.
Often appears as...
- have designs on someone
- have designs on someone's husband/wife
Usage tips
Idiomatic
verb phrase
To plan secretly to do something, especially something that could harm others.
He has designs on the company, and I think he's planning to take over.
Often appears as...
- have designs on a company
- have designs on someone's position
Usage tips
Disapproving
Idiomatic
verb phrase
To be attracted to or desire someone or something especially for personal gain.
Sam has designs on Laura, but she's not interested.
Often appears as...
- have designs on someone
- have designs on someone's husband/wife
Usage tips
Idiomatic
Definition 1 of 2
Pro Tip 1/3Secret Plans
Implies scheming in a secretive or deceptive way, often with selfish motives.
She's been too interested in the boss's work; I suspect she has designs on his job.
Pro Tip 2/3Negative Connotation
This phrase suggests negative intentions, possibly leading to harmful actions.
They have designs on our territory, which could escalate into a conflict.
Pro Tip 3/3Power Moves
Often used in contexts like business or politics, hinting at a power struggle or takeover.
There's a rumor that the shareholders have designs on restructuring the entire board.
Pro Tip 1/3Secret Plans
Implies scheming in a secretive or deceptive way, often with selfish motives.
She's been too interested in the boss's work; I suspect she has designs on his job.
Pro Tip 2/3Negative Connotation
This phrase suggests negative intentions, possibly leading to harmful actions.
They have designs on our territory, which could escalate into a conflict.
Pro Tip 3/3Power Moves
Often used in contexts like business or politics, hinting at a power struggle or takeover.
There's a rumor that the shareholders have designs on restructuring the entire board.
Pro Tip 1/3Secret Plans
Implies scheming in a secretive or deceptive way, often with selfish motives.
She's been too interested in the boss's work; I suspect she has designs on his job.
Pro Tip 2/3Negative Connotation
This phrase suggests negative intentions, possibly leading to harmful actions.
They have designs on our territory, which could escalate into a conflict.
Pro Tip 3/3Power Moves
Often used in contexts like business or politics, hinting at a power struggle or takeover.
There's a rumor that the shareholders have designs on restructuring the entire board.
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