PhrasesHub

A diamond in the rough

    Definitions

      • Potential or talent hidden beneath a rough exterior or unpolished presentation
        Refer to someone or something that may not seem impressive or valuable at first glance, but has the potential to become great with some polishing or refining

      • Rare or valuable find in an unexpected or unlikely place
        Describe a person or object that is unexpectedly or surprisingly good or valuable, despite not appearing so initially

      • A person with a rough or uncultured exterior but a kind or noble heart
        Describe someone who may not have the best manners or appearance, but has a good heart and is worthy of attention or admiration

    Examples of A diamond in the rough

    • Sarah's son, Jack, has a lot of potential. He's a diamond in the rough, just waiting to be polished and shined.

      This idiom is used to describe someone who has inherent talent or potential, but has not yet reached their full potential. The phrase "diamond in the rough" refers to a rough, uncut diamond that has the potential to become a beautiful and valuable gemstone with proper cutting and polishing. In this example, Sarah's son, Jack, is being compared to a rough diamond, implying that he has hidden talents and potential that have not yet been fully realized.BITE THE BULLET

    • I know this project is going to be tough, but we have to bite the bullet and get it done.

      This idiom is used to describe a difficult situation that must be faced and dealt with, often with reluctance or discomfort. The phrase "bite the bullet" comes from the old practice of administering morphine to patients by having them bite down on a bullet while it was being inserted into their mouth. In this example, the speaker is acknowledging that the project at hand will be challenging, but that they must face it head-on and persevere, just as a person must face the discomfort of biting down on a bullet in order to receive the relief of the morphine.PIECE OF CAKE

    • The final exam was a piece of cake compared to the midterms.

      This idiom is used to describe an easy or straightforward task or situation. The phrase "piece of cake" comes from the idea that a simple task can be completed easily, much like cutting a slice of cake with a knife. In this example, the speaker is comparing the final exam to the midterms, implying that the final exam was much easier and less difficult than the midterms.LET THE CAT OUT OF THE BAG

    • I can't keep this secret any longer, I'm afraid I've let the cat out of the bag.

      This idiom is used to describe revealing a secret or surprise that was previously kept hidden. The phrase "let the cat out of the bag" comes from the old practice of keeping a cat in a bag as a surprise for children. When the surprise was revealed, the cat would be released from the bag, much like revealing a secret or surprise. In this example, the speaker is acknowledging that they have accidentally revealed a secret, comparing it to the release of a cat from a bag.CALL THE SHOTS

    • As the director, it's my job to call the shots and make the final decisions.

      This idiom is used to describe having the authority to make important decisions or choices. The phrase "call the shots" comes from the idea of a director or leader giving orders and making decisions on a movie set or in a group setting. In this example, the speaker is emphasizing their position of authority as the director, implying that they have the final say in important decisions and choices.


    Conclusion

    The idiom "a diamond in the rough" is often used to describe a person, thing, or situation that may not seem impressive or valuable at first glance, but has the potential to become great with some polishing or refining. It can also refer to a rare or valuable find in an unexpected or unlikely place. Additionally, the term can be used to describe a person who may have a rough or uncultured exterior, but has a good heart and is worthy of attention or admiration.

    This idiom highlights the idea of hidden potential, and serves as a reminder to not judge things solely based on their outward appearance or initial presentation. It can also be seen as a metaphor for the process of discovering and uncovering hidden talents or qualities in oneself or others.

    Origin of "A diamond in the rough"

    The phrase "a diamond in the rough" originates from the diamond industry, where rough diamonds must undergo a process of cutting and polishing to reveal their true beauty and value. The term was first used in English literature in the 1600s, and has since become a popular idiom in modern language.

    The idiom also has roots in the ancient Greek philosopher, Plato, who famously wrote in his work "The Republic": "Human behavior flows from three main sources: desire, emotion, and knowledge." This can be interpreted as the idea that a person's true character or worth may not be immediately apparent, but can be revealed through time and experience.

    Overall, the idiom "a diamond in the rough" reminds us to look beyond surface appearances and to recognize the potential for greatness in unexpected places.