Word Pronunciation & Dictionary

go against the grain

Word Rarity Uncommon

Frequency: 4.16 in modern English

Syllables: go a-gain-st the -grain
IPA

23

Scrabble Score

17

Letters

4

Syllables

10

Unique Chars

Meaning

verb

To defy convention or norms; to do something in a manner that is unusual or out of the ordinary.

Example Sentences

"His method certainly goes against the grain, but it is unquestionably effective."
"Blondes do have more fun, Mrs. [Kelly] Rowland!! Go against the grain this fall and opt for a fully opaque, bright-as-hell platinum dye job. Although it’s unexpected for a season filled with dark colors, the cool undertones are a masterful way to manipulate your way into a fall ’do while going lighter."

Inflected Forms

goes against the grain (present, singular) going against the grain (participle, present) went against the grain (past) gone against the grain (participle, past)

Phrases

against the grain

Frequently Paired Words

against the grain

Synonyms

run counter

Questions

What does go against the grain mean?: To defy convention or norms; to do something in a manner that is unusual or out of the ordinary.

How to pronounce go against the grain

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