Have a trick, some more tricks, etc. up your sleeve
idiom
To have a secret plan or method that can be used if needed.
He always has a trick up his sleeve to solve complex math problems.
Often appears as...
- keep a trick up one's sleeve
- pull a trick from one's sleeve
Usage tips
Idiomatic
idiom
To have a secret plan or method that can be used if needed.
He always has a trick up his sleeve to solve complex math problems.
Often appears as...
- keep a trick up one's sleeve
- pull a trick from one's sleeve
Usage tips
Idiomatic
Definition 1 of 1
Pro Tip 1/3Hidden Advantage
Use it to describe a concealed skill or resource that one can draw upon when needed.
Despite being underestimated, she had a trick up her sleeve during the debate.
Pro Tip 2/3Strategy Reveal
Mention it when someone reveals a clever strategy to address a problem that wasn’t apparent before.
When we thought all was lost, our coach pulled a trick from his sleeve.
Pro Tip 3/3Surprise Element
Highlight unexpected solutions or surprise elements in a story or conversation.
The magician had one more trick up his sleeve, leaving the audience in awe.
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