Skeem

Skeem is a term from Afrikaans that means a plan, scheme, or plot. In South African English, the word is used to describe a deliberate arrangement or deception, and its connotation can range from a neutral plan to a fraudulent or illicit activity. Skeem can refer to any coordinated activity or strategy, including legitimate initiatives, but it is often encountered in discussions of scams, fraud, or political and corporate misconduct.

Etymology and usage: The word originates in Afrikaans, itself derived from Dutch, and has entered everyday language in South Africa and surrounding regions. It appears in media reporting, journalism, and everyday speech to capture the idea of a coordinated, sometimes hidden, set of actions designed to achieve a goal. Context typically determines whether skeem is viewed as clever planning or a morally suspect scheme.

Cultural references: A notable use of the term in popular culture is the South African television drama Skeem Saam, which premiered in 2011 on SABC1. The title combines skeem with saam and reflects themes around the schemes and plans that influence the lives of characters within a South African community. The show has become a prominent example of locally produced drama in the country, contributing to public discourse about urban life, youth, and social issues.