How to Pronounce "against the grain"
expression
uh-GAYNST thuh GRAYN
uh-GENST thuh GRAYN
Definition
To do something in a way that is different from what is usual or expected, or that goes against the natural way of things.
IPA Transcription
American English
əˈɡeɪnst/, /əˈɡɛnst/ /ˈðə/, /ðə/, /ði/ /ˈɡɹeɪn
British English
ɐɡˈɛnst/ /ðə, ði/ /ɡɹˈeɪn
Simplified Pronunciation
US
uh-GAYNST thuh GRAYN
UK
uh-GENST thuh GRAYN
Listen in Context
He has always acted against the grain.
Cutting wood against the grain makes it rough.
Her opinions often go against the grain.
Speaking up at the meeting felt against the grain, but I had to do it.