eɪs ʌp wʌnz sliːv
- Literally:
- An ace playing card hidden in one's shirt sleeve
What does "ace up one's sleeve" mean?
- A secret advantage or resource kept in reserve
- A hidden strategy or skill that gives an advantage
Examples
- The lawyer had an ace up his sleeve—a surprise witness.
- I've got an ace up my sleeve for the final negotiation.
- She seemed defeated, but she had an ace up her sleeve.
Origin
From card game cheating, where dishonest players would hide an ace in their sleeve to use at a crucial moment. The ace is typically the highest-value card. The phrase emerged in the 19th century with the popularity of card games.
How to use it
Often used in competitive situations like negotiations, sports, or business. The phrase implies strategic advantage held in reserve.
Similar expressions
Opposites
Related idioms
- no pain no gain
Success requires hard work and sacrifice
- ball is in your court
It's your turn to take action or make a decision
- like riding a bicycle
A skill that, once learned, is never forgotten
- drop the ball
To fail to do something important; to make a mistake
- level playing field
A situation where everyone has an equal opportunity
- on the ball
Alert and competent
Use it in a practice answer
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