against the grain

== English == === Pronunciation === IPA(key): /əˈɡɛnst ðə ɡɹeɪn/ === Prepositional phrase === against the grain (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. (idiomatic) Unwillingly, reluctantly; contrary to one's nature. Used other than figuratively or idiomatically: see against,‎ the,‎ grain. ==== Usage notes ==== The expression allows possessive pronouns and certain determiners to replace the and grain to be plural. ==== Translations ==== ==== See also ==== Plane (tool) on Wikipedia.Wikipedia go against the grain turn the tide