up (one's) sleeve

(redirected from up his sleeve)

up (one's) sleeve

Of a plan or advantage, kept in secret so it can be utilized if and when it is required. A reference to cheating at a card game by hiding a favorable card up one's sleeve. My stamina is the ace up my sleeve for this race—the other runners don't stand a chance! I've got a few tricks up my sleeve if he decides to pursue legal action against me.
See also: sleeve, up

up your sleeve

(of a strategy, idea, or resource) kept secret and in reserve for use when needed.
See also: sleeve, up

up (one's) sleeve

Hidden but ready to be used: I still have a few tricks up my sleeve.
See also: sleeve, up
References in periodicals archive ?
When Shane, 41, ventured into a casino for his team's entry in the World Poker tournament, 46-year-old Liz was the ace up his sleeve. He said: "This is the first time Elizabeth has joined me in Vegas.
More news of the 'evil keeper' and the 'big blonde'.
Find out what tricks Maxwell has up his sleeve tonight.
We love telly: Maxwell deserved relief - PICK OF THE DAY - SMOKE AND MIRRORS RTE2, 10pm
GOVERNMENT minister David Miliband rolled up his sleeves and got dirty during a visit to Birmingham.
Minister in clean sweep
Join the finance committee to debate the half-million-dollar organ renovation, or roll up his sleeves and make a casserole to comfort grieving friends and family at a funeral dinner?
A recipe for reform? Power to the pastry chef! Can a kolachky crisis teach the church how great a contribution women make?
"Bruce offers technical know-how, he rolls up his sleeves, puts on jeans and takes care of problems.
New firm boasts personal touch
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