designing
6 synonyms and 0 antonyms for designing, grouped by meaning and by how common each one is.
Adj — Scheming or plotting, usually for selfish gain.
Synonyms
Less common
Still standard English, but they carry more weight.
Rare, literary or technical
Precise, but they will stand out — check the sense before using one.
Frequently asked questions
What does “designing” mean?
The word “designing” means scheming or plotting, usually for selfish gain. In plain terms, as an adjective, sly or manipulative; otherwise, the process of creating designs.
How do you use “designing” in a sentence?
Here is “designing” used in a sentence: “She warned her son about designing people who only wanted his money.”
What part of speech is “designing”?
Depending on how it is used, “designing” can be an adjective and a noun.
Is “designing” a common word?
“Designing” is a fairly common word in modern English.
How many meanings does “designing” have?
“Designing” has 2 distinct senses listed in this dictionary. The most common is: scheming or plotting, usually for selfish gain.
What is the difference between "designing" as an adjective and "designing" as a verb?
As an adjective, "designing" means scheming or crafty, as in "a designing rival," and it carries a negative sense. As the -ing form of the verb "design," it neutrally describes the act of creating a design, as in "she is designing a logo."
Does "designing" always have a negative meaning?
No. "Designing" is negative only when used as an adjective meaning scheming or manipulative, as in "a designing person." When it refers to the work of creating something, such as "designing a house," it is completely neutral.
What is the difference between "designing" and "cunning"?
Both can describe someone who plots for selfish gain, but "designing" suggests calculated scheming hidden behind a respectable surface, while "cunning" emphasizes cleverness and skill at deception. As an adjective, "designing" is also more old-fashioned and literary.
What words commonly follow "designing"?
In its neutral sense, "designing" is usually followed by the thing being created, as in "designing websites," "designing clothes," or "designing a system." As a critical adjective it typically precedes a person, as in "a designing woman" or "a designing schemer."