against the grain
Meaning
(woodworking, of sanding or planing a piece of wood) Preventing a smooth, level surface from being formed by raising the nap of the wood or causing larger splinters to form ahead of the cutting tool below the cutting surface.
(idiomatic) Contrary to what is expected; especially, of behavior different from what society expects.
By going against the grain and going to work nude, you've made yourself a laughing stock.
(idiomatic) Unwillingly, reluctantly; contrary to one's nature.
It went much against the grain with him
Used other than figuratively or idiomatically: see against, the, grain.
Source: en.wiktionary.orgSynonyms
Antonyms
Show all antonymsExamples
It goes against the grain of modern education to teach students to program. What fun is there to making plans, acquiring discipline, organizing thoughts, devoting attention to detail, and learning to be self critical.
I think being different, going against the grain of society is the greatest thing in the world.
It is not logical for art to be logical. Art goes against the grain of the times as readily as it goes with it and at the very same moment. Instead of seeking the nearest exit, art responds to a new situation by uncovering a labyrinth of problems.
To me, punk is about being an individual and going against the grain and standing up and saying 'This is who I am'.
All the writers and producers around us that gave us the environment where we could play. They were able to provide us with a place where we could take chances to play with things, go against the grain and do things that people don't always do.
Run against the grain of a nation's genius and see where you get with your laws.