Run against the grain In english explanation

The meaning, explanation, definition and origin of the idiom/phrase "run against the grain", English Idiom Dictionary ( also found in Vietnamese )

author Tommy Tran calendar 2021-01-05 01:01

Meaning of Run against the grain

Synonyms:

buck the trend

Run against the grain verb phrase

The verb "run" can be replaced by "go".

To do something in a way that is against the standard rules or out of the ordinary

Bruno always runs/goes against the grain because he thinks he's a special guy.

Somehow it runs/goes against the grain to decide not to get married.

Other phrases about:

you wouldn't read about it

Used to emphasize that something is so unbelievable, uncommon or ridiculous that you would not see it in stories and it's obviously impossible in real life

(as) rare as rocking horse manure

Being rare or non- existent

an odd/a queer fish

Used to describe somebody who thinks or behaves in a strange way, or who is unusual and eccentric

off key

1. Lit. Out of tune.
2. Strange or unusual. 
 

Grammar and Usage of Run against the grain

Verb Forms

  • run against the grain
  • runs against the grain

The verb "run" should be conjugated according to its tense.

Origin of Run against the grain

Wood grain. (Image Source: GeorgeHill)

The expression derived from the grain in wood. When carpenters want to cut wood, they can do this easily by cutting along the grain, not against it.

However, the expression was made popular by Shakespeare which was appeared in his play Coriolanus from 1607:

"Than what you should, made you against the grain

 To voice him consul: lay the fault on us."

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eyes like two burnt holes in a blanket

Eyes with dark rings around them 

Example:

I get eyes like two burnt holes in a blanket after sleepless 2 nights

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