The phrase "against the grain" refers to doing something in a way that is contrary to usual practice or conventional wisdom. If you're looking for synonyms, you might try phrases like "going against the norm," "bucking the trend," or "swimming upstream." Other possibilities include "defying convention," "breaking with tradition," or "rebelling against expectations." These phrases all convey a sense of challenging established ideas or methods, and they all suggest a willingness to take risks or go against the status quo. Whether you're trying to express your own independence or encourage others to think outside the box, these synonyms for "against the grain" can help you do so with clarity and style.