against the grain
Example Sentences
Examples are provided to illustrate real-world usage of words in context. Any opinions expressed do not reflect the views of Dictionary.com.
Anything unexpectedly or especially moving, rousing, funny or strange, things that go against the grain of a production that wants to keep things controlled in order to bring the ship in on time.
From Los Angeles Times ● Sep. 15, 2026
Earlier this month, Poland’s central bank went against the grain.
From The Wall Street Journal ● Mar. 23, 2026
"It's because these films are so beautiful, so unique and so strong that they sometimes go against the grain," said Binoche.
From Barron's ● Feb. 15, 2026
For someone who has always gone against the grain, and occasionally off the rails, it is hard to imagine what he could do now to diminish his status, however.
From BBC ● Mar. 23, 2025
I place one clammy palm against the grain of the door and push.
From "Love, Hate & Other Filters" by Samira Ahmed
