have designs on

Idioms  

1. Contrive a secret plot or scheme, especially with selfish motives. For example, I think he has designs on my job, or Mary has designs on her sister's boyfriend. This term uses design in the sense of “a crafty plan,” a usage dating from about 1700.

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Example Sentences

See Examples For:

have designs on

The Chargers still have designs on overtaking Denver and winning the division.

From Los Angeles Times ● Dec. 18, 2025

This was thrilling, progressive football that will set the standard for every side in Europe who have designs on the Champions League.

From BBC ● May 31, 2025

The Dodgers, notably, pulled Clayton Kershaw after seven perfect innings because the veteran left-hander had thrown 80 pitches on a cold afternoon in Minnesota and they have designs on a deep postseason run.

From New York Times ● May 15, 2022

But Hot Wheels could just as well end up being a film to watch out for, especially if Warner Bros. and Mattel have designs on it becoming their answer to Universal’s Fast & Furious franchise.

From The Verge ● Apr. 25, 2022

He peppered Lawrence with pointed gossip about rival institutions that might have designs on him.

From "Big Science" by Michael Hiltzik