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to laugh up one's sleeve
01
to secretly take pleasure in something or find it amusing, particularly someone else's problems and misfortunes
Idiom
InformalWhat is the origin of the idiom "laugh up one's sleeve" and when to use it?
The origin of the idiom "laugh up one's sleeve" can be traced back to medieval times when it was customary for people to wear large, loose sleeves. The phrase signifies a hidden or secret amusement, where one suppresses laughter by covering their mouth with their sleeve to avoid drawing attention. It is used to convey a sense of smug or sly amusement, often at the expense of someone else, while attempting to conceal it from others.
例
The employee would often laugh up his sleeve when his overbearing boss made a mistake during meetings.
The prankster couldn't help but laugh up his sleeve as his friend fell victim to yet another practical joke.
The cunning villain always had a plan and would laugh up his sleeve when things went his way.
Despite the criticism, the artist would laugh up her sleeve when she saw how much her controversial artwork stirred emotions.
The mischievous child laughed up his sleeve as his sibling received a scolding from their parents.
