have designs on

have designs on (someone or something)

To pursue someone or something, often for selfish reasons. I don't trust him because I think he has designs on my job. He said he has designs on Karen, but I don't think he has a chance with her.See also: design, have, on

have designs on someone or something

Fig. to have plans to exploit or somehow take advantage of someone or something. Mrs. Brown has designs on my apple tree. I think she's going to cut off the part that hangs over her fence. Mary has designs on Bill. I think she'll try to date him.See also: design, have, on

have designs on

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. See also: design, have, on

have designs on

aim to obtain something desired, especially in an underhand way. 2003 Economist Hardliners…think America has designs on its oil, and will act against Iran once it has disposed of Saddam Hussein. See also: design, have, on

have deˈsigns on somebody/something

intend to take somebody/something for yourself, for example a job or a person who you find sexually attractive: Several people have got designs on the office manager’s post. ♢ I think she’s got designs on you, Peter.See also: design, have, on, somebody, something