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Laugh up One's Sleeve

What Does "Laugh up One's Sleeve" Mean?

homeidiomsLaugh up One's Sleeve
"Laugh up one's sleeve" is an English idiom. It means "to laugh secretly or discreetly, especially at another's misfortune."

Examples in Sentences

Here are three examples of the idiom "laugh up one's sleeve" used in a sentence:
  • He tried to act compassionate, but I could tell he was laughing up his sleeve.
  • She might appear sympathetic, but she's really laughing up her sleeve.
  • I don't trust him; he's always laughing up his sleeve.
meaning for laugh up one's sleeve

What Is an Idiom?

An idiom is a commonly used expression whose meaning does not relate to the literal meaning of its words. In other words, if you were to translate "Laugh up One's Sleeve" word for word, there is no guarantee the translation would help you to understand the meaning.

An idiom often includes a cultural or historical context that makes it difficult for non-native English speakers to understand. A phrase is classified as an idiom when a direct translation of the words does not reveal the meaning. Most idioms rely on shared knowledge or experiences known only to a specific community.

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