How to Pronounce "have an ace up your sleeve"
expression
HAV-uhn-AYS-uhp-YOR-sleev
hav-UN-AYS-up-YAW-sleev
Definition
To have a secret advantage or a hidden resource that you can use when needed, especially in a difficult situation.
IPA Transcription
American English
ˈhæv/ /ˈæn/, /ən/ /ˈeɪs/ /ˈəp/ /ˈjɔɹ/, /ˈjʊɹ/ /ˈsɫiv
British English
hæv/ /ˈɐn/ /ˈeɪs/ /ˈʌp/ /jˈɔː/ /slˈiːv
Simplified Pronunciation
US
HAV-uhn-AYS-uhp-YOR-sleev
UK
hav-UN-AYS-up-YAW-sleev
Listen in Context
She has an ace up her sleeve for the competition.
I think our team has an ace up its sleeve this year.
Do you have an ace up your sleeve for the exam?
Don't worry, he always has an ace up his sleeve when it matters.