Be/go against the grain
phrase
To do something differently or not follow the usual way or tradition; to be out of the ordinary or unusual.
Why do you always have to go against the grain and question everything?
Often appears as...
- go against the grain
- works against the grain
Usage tips
Idiomatic
phrase
To act contrary to one's feelings, nature or disposition.
It goes against the grain for me to ask for help, but I really need it this time.
Often appears as...
- it goes against the grain
- goes against the grain with me
Usage tips
Idiomatic
phrase
To do something differently or not follow the usual way or tradition; to be out of the ordinary or unusual.
Why do you always have to go against the grain and question everything?
Often appears as...
- go against the grain
- works against the grain
Usage tips
Idiomatic
phrase
To act contrary to one's feelings, nature or disposition.
It goes against the grain for me to ask for help, but I really need it this time.
Often appears as...
- it goes against the grain
- goes against the grain with me
Usage tips
Idiomatic
Definition 1 of 2
Pro Tip 1/3Cultural Boldness
Used to describe decisions or actions that challenge societal norms or expectations.
Choosing to travel the world alone may go against the grain, but it can be rewarding.
Pro Tip 2/3Creative Uniqueness
Highlights when someone's creative work stands out from the norm or defies trends.
Her abstract painting style really goes against the grain of traditional art.
Pro Tip 3/3Unusual Method
Applies to unconventional methods in professions, studies, or tasks.
His approach to solving the problem went against the grain but was effective.
Pro Tip 1/3Cultural Boldness
Used to describe decisions or actions that challenge societal norms or expectations.
Choosing to travel the world alone may go against the grain, but it can be rewarding.
Pro Tip 2/3Creative Uniqueness
Highlights when someone's creative work stands out from the norm or defies trends.
Her abstract painting style really goes against the grain of traditional art.
Pro Tip 3/3Unusual Method
Applies to unconventional methods in professions, studies, or tasks.
His approach to solving the problem went against the grain but was effective.
Pro Tip 1/3Cultural Boldness
Used to describe decisions or actions that challenge societal norms or expectations.
Choosing to travel the world alone may go against the grain, but it can be rewarding.
Pro Tip 2/3Creative Uniqueness
Highlights when someone's creative work stands out from the norm or defies trends.
Her abstract painting style really goes against the grain of traditional art.
Pro Tip 3/3Unusual Method
Applies to unconventional methods in professions, studies, or tasks.
His approach to solving the problem went against the grain but was effective.
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