Have something up your sleeve: Learn what the means through example!

What does “Have something up your sleeve” mean?

"Have something up your sleeve" means to have a secret plan or idea.

What context can I use the in?

Example

I always have something up my sleeve when it comes to surprises.

Example

He's a master strategist and always has something up his sleeve.

Example

She's a clever negotiator and always has something up her sleeve

Is “Have something up your sleeve” an expression, an idiom, or a proverb?

“Have something up your sleeve” is a proverb. A proverb is a short saying that teaches us something important or gives us advice. Unlike an idiom, it’s easy to understand even if it uses figurative language.

How would I use “Have something up your sleeve” effectively in context?

You can use "Have something up your sleeve" to describe someone who always has a secret plan or idea. It implies that the person is clever and resourceful, and is able to come up with unexpected solutions or strategies. For example, if a friend is known for surprising others with creative gifts, you might say, 'She always has something up her sleeve when it comes to surprises.'

• 1. Surprises

  I always have something up my sleeve when it comes to surprises.

• 2. Strategy

  He's a master strategist and always has something up his sleeve.

• 3. Negotiation

  She's a clever negotiator and always has something up her sleeve.

Similar phrases to “Have something up your sleeve”:

Keep something under one's hat

To keep something a secret

Example

She kept her plans under her hat until the big reveal.

Play one's cards close to one's chest

To keep one's plans or intentions secret

Example

He played his cards close to his chest during the negotiation.

Pull a rabbit out of a hat

To produce something unexpectedly or miraculously

Example

The magician pulled a rabbit out of a hat, surprising the audience.

Think on one's feet

To quickly come up with ideas or solutions in response to unexpected situations

Example

She's a great problem solver and always thinks on her feet.

Good things to know:

Where does the phrase “Have something up your sleeve” come from?

The origin of the phrase "Have something up your sleeve" is unknown.

Is “Have something up your sleeve” common in everyday conversation?

Yes, "Have something up your sleeve" is a commonly used idiom in everyday conversation. People often use it to describe someone who is clever and always has a secret plan or idea.

What tone does “Have something up your sleeve” have?

"Have something up your sleeve" conveys a tone of intrigue and resourcefulness. It suggests that the person being described is skilled at thinking ahead and coming up with unexpected solutions.

Can “Have something up your sleeve” be used in informal and formal settings?

Yes, "Have something up your sleeve" can be used in both informal and formal settings. It's a versatile expression that conveys the idea of having a secret plan or idea. You can use it in everyday conversations with friends, family, and colleagues, as well as in more formal situations such as presentations, meetings, or professional correspondence.

Can it be used by itself, or is it usually part of a sentence?

It's commonly used as part of a sentence to convey its full meaning. For example, 'He always has something up his sleeve when it comes to negotiations.' However, in informal conversations, people might understand the phrase even if used alone, like saying 'I've got something up my sleeve!' to imply having a surprise or secret plan.

Synonyms & Antonyms

Synonyms

• have a trick up your sleeve
• be prepared
• be resourceful
• be cunning
• be sly
• be crafty

Antonyms

• be predictable
• be straightforward
• be transparent
• be open
• be honest