How to Pronounce "laugh up your sleeve"
expression
LAF-up-YOR-SLEEV
LAAF-up-YAW-SLEEV
Definition
To be secretly amused by something, especially when others are unaware or would not approve. Often used when someone hides their satisfaction at another's mistake or misfortune.
IPA Transcription
American English
ˈɫæf/ /ˈəp/ /ˈjɔɹ/, /ˈjʊɹ/ /ˈsɫiv
British English
lˈɑːf/ /ˈʌp/ /jˈɔː/ /slˈiːv
Simplified Pronunciation
US
LAF-up-YOR-SLEEV
UK
LAAF-up-YAW-SLEEV
Listen in Context
She couldn't help but laugh up her sleeve when her brother tripped over his shoelaces.
He laughed up his sleeve at his competitor's mistake during the game.
The teacher noticed some students laughing up their sleeves during the class.
Everyone pretended to agree, but you could tell they were all laughing up their sleeves.