Against the grain

Meaning

The idiom "against the grain" refers to doing something that goes against common or typical behavior, opinion, or belief. It describes a situation where someone or something is going against what is generally accepted as right, normal, or appropriate. The phrase may also suggest a certain level of resistance or conflict with prevailing norms.

Usage

• Despite the majority's approval, John decided to oppose the new policy, going against the grain.
• The artist was known for painting in an unconventional style that was against the grain.
• She chose a career path that wasn't well-trodden, choosing to go against the grain instead of following the crowd.
• Many people were uncomfortable with the new CEO's management style, which went against the grain and resulted in dissatisfaction among employees.
• The book challenged traditional notions of gender roles, presenting a perspective that was against the grain.

Roots and History

The idiom "against the grain" dates back to the Middle Ages when people believed that the direction of the grain on barley or wheat stalks could affect their health. As such, doctors and healers recommended consuming foods that were harvested in a way that went against the grain, which included cutting the stalks diagonally instead of straight across. Over time, this belief evolved to refer to anything that was different from what was considered normal or typical. The phrase "going against the grain" emerged in the 19th century and has since been used to describe a wide range of situations where someone or something deviates from social norms or expectations.

Synonyms in English

• Against the stream/flow/current
• Counterintuitive
• Unconventional
• Controversial
• Dissident

Synonyms in other languages

• En contrario a lo común (Spanish)
• 反對正常的 (Mandarin Chinese)
• 비즈니스에서도 혁신적인 것이고, 거부해야 할 것이 있습니다. (Japanese)
• فرنجية (Arabic)
• ايران ها العبض (Persian)

Similar Idioms

• cast aspersions

• halfway house

• riddle me