Example: Siempre tiene un as en la manga para ganar el juego.
Definition
"Tener un as en la manga" means to have a hidden advantage or secret resource that can be used to gain an upper hand in a situation. It implies possessing a clever strategy or unexpected solution reserved for crucial moments.
Translations
to have an ace up one's sleeve
een troef achter de hand hebben
tenir un as a la màniga
avoir un atout dans sa manche
ein Ass im Ärmel haben
Etymology
The phrase "tener un as en la manga" literally translates to "to have an ace up the sleeve" in English. It originates from card games where hiding an ace in one’s sleeve would provide an unfair advantage. Over time, it evolved into a metaphor for any secret advantage.
Learn to use this expression actively
"Tener un as en la manga" appears in the Vocaplus list "Spanish - General - Modismos y refranes - (C2) - parte 1", containing 105 commonly used expressions.
Would you like to not only understand these expressions, but also remember them and use them actively? Create a free account and select Spanish as the language you want to learn.
to have an ace up one's sleeve