The idiom "ace up one's sleeve" means to have a secret plan or an unexpected advantage that can be used to gain an advantage over someone else. It comes from the game of cards where a player might hide an ace card up their sleeve to use it later in the game.
You can use this idiom when you want to describe someone who has a hidden advantage or a secret plan that they can use to win a competition or to achieve a goal. For example, if a company is struggling to compete with its rivals, it might have an ace up its sleeve in the form of a new product that is about to be launched. Or, if a student is worried about failing an exam, they might have an ace up their sleeve in the form of a tutor who can help them prepare better.
In short, "ace up one's sleeve" is a useful idiom to describe a hidden advantage or a secret plan that can be used to gain an advantage over someone else.
• The politician had an ace up his sleeve in the form of a secret document that could potentially win him the election. (complex sentence)
• I have an ace up my sleeve! (simple sentence)
• When it comes to job interviews, it's always good to have an ace up your sleeve like a strong reference. (compound sentence)
• Despite the challenges, the seasoned negotiator had an ace up his sleeve, his years of experience and expertise in the field. (complex sentence)
• The entrepreneur always keeps an ace up her sleeve, constantly researching and developing new products to stay ahead of her competitors. (compound-complex sentence)
• The strategist had an ace up her sleeve, a well-planned and executed marketing campaign that propelled the company to the top of the industry. (compound-complex sentence)