go against the grain

Example Sentences

Examples are provided to illustrate real-world usage of words in context. Any opinions expressed do not reflect the views of Dictionary.com.

"It's because these films are so beautiful, so unique and so strong that they sometimes go against the grain," said Binoche.

From Barron's • Feb. 15, 2026

David Murdoch: Going to go against the grain here and say this tie isn't over.

From BBC • Aug. 20, 2025

These results go against the grain of current public policy practices that aim to promote healthy eating by relying on images of nutritious foods.

From Salon • Apr. 26, 2023

But as long as food waste is a significant contributor to climate change, I will go against the grain, so to speak, to make an impact and hope my oddball ways catch on.

From Washington Post • Apr. 20, 2023

Somehow, it seems to go against the grain doing this hunting at such a queer time.

From The Outdoor Chums After Big Game Or, Perilous Adventures in the Wilderness by Allen, Quincy