The idiom "ace up one's sleeve" or "card up one's sleeve" has its origins in card games, particularly in the practice of cheating or having a hidden advantage in a game of cards. It refers to the act of concealing a valuable playing card (often an ace) in the sleeve of one's clothing to use it to one's advantage during the game. The phrase has since evolved to describe a secret or hidden advantage, plan, or resource that someone keeps hidden and plans to use to gain an advantage in a situation.

What is the origin of the idiom "ace up one's sleeve" and when to use it?

Definition und Bedeutung von „ ace up one's sleeve“ im Englischen

Download Mobile App