What does “Card up your sleeve” mean?

"Card up your sleeve" means having a secret plan or advantage.

What context can I use the in?

Learn when and how to use these words with these examples!

Example

He always has a card up his sleeve when negotiating.

Example

I need to come up with a card up my sleeve for the presentation.

Example

She revealed her card up her sleeve during the final round of the competition

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

“Card 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 “Card up your sleeve” effectively in context?

You can use "Card up your sleeve" to describe someone who has a secret plan or advantage that they can use to their benefit. It implies that the person is holding something back and will reveal it at the opportune moment. For example, if a friend is known for being clever and always finding a way out of difficult situations, you might say, 'He always has a card up his sleeve when negotiating.'

1Negotiation
During the business deal, he revealed his card up his sleeve and secured a better offer.
During the business deal, he revealed his card up his sleeve and secured a better offer.
2Presentation
To impress the audience, she needs to come up with a card up her sleeve for the final part of the presentation.
To impress the audience, she needs to come up with a card up her sleeve for the final part of the presentation.
3Competition
In the last round of the competition, she revealed her card up her sleeve and surprised everyone with her hidden talent.
In the last round of the competition, she revealed her card up her sleeve and surprised everyone with her hidden talent.

Similar phrases to “Card up your sleeve”:

Ace in the hole

A hidden advantage or resource that can be used to ensure success

Example

She kept her best idea as an ace in the hole for the final presentation.

Hidden agenda

A secret plan or motive that someone has

Example

He suspected that there was a hidden agenda behind their sudden interest in the project.

Trick up one's sleeve

A secret plan or strategy that someone has

Example

He always has a trick up his sleeve to win the game.

Under the table

Secretly or dishonestly

Example

They made a deal under the table to avoid paying taxes.

Good things to know:

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

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

Is “Card up your sleeve” common in everyday conversation?

Yes, "Card up your sleeve" is a commonly used idiom in everyday conversation. People often use it to describe someone who has a secret plan or advantage.

What tone does “Card up your sleeve” have?

"Card up your sleeve" conveys a tone of intrigue and strategy. It suggests that someone is cleverly holding back information or resources to gain an advantage.

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

Yes, "Card 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 advantage. 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 a card up his sleeve when negotiating.' However, in informal conversations, people might understand the phrase even if used alone, like saying 'Time to reveal my "card up my sleeve"!' to imply readiness to unveil a secret plan.

Synonyms & Antonyms

Synonyms

secret weapon
hidden advantage
clever tactic
strategic move
surprise element

Antonyms

open book
transparent
no tricks
no hidden agenda
playing fair