PhrasesHub

Rough diamond

    Definitions

      • potential for greatness hidden beneath a rough exterior
        Refer to someone or something that has great potential or talent despite appearing unrefined or unpolished

      • someone who is kind-hearted despite a rough or gruff exterior
        Describe a person who may seem tough or intimidating on the outside, but is actually very caring and generous

    Examples of Rough diamond

    • She may not be polished or refined, but with her unique ideas and determination, she's a true rough diamond.

      This idiom is used to describe a person who has great potential but may currently appear unrefined or unpolished. It's saying that just like a rough diamond, the person has hidden value and can be shaped and polished into a beautiful and valuable gem.

    • I remember when I first met him. He was shy and unsure of himself, but I saw a rough diamond in the making.

      This example shows how someone might see potential in another person early on, even before they've fully developed their skills or confidence.

    • Some people dismiss him because of his outlandish ideas and unconventional methods, but I see a rough diamond there.

      This example shows how someone might defend or advocate for someone who is seen as out of the ordinary or unconventional, by pointing out that they have potential and value.

    • Don't be fooled by her rough exterior. Beneath the surface, she's a true rough diamond.

      This example shows how someone might have a perception of someone being unapproachable or unfriendly, but then learn to see that person's true potential and value, even if it's less obvious on the surface.

    • She may be a bit rough around the edges, but she's a true rough diamond.

      This idiom describes someone who has the potential to be great, but needs a bit of refining. The "rough" part refers to the person's behavior or demeanor, which may be unpolished or unrefined. The "diamond" part refers to the person's innate value or worth. So, when we say that someone is a rough diamond, we're acknowledging that there's something special or valuable about them, despite their rough exterior.

    • In this team, we have a few rough diamonds, but we're determined to polish them up and turn them into assets.

      This example demonstrates how the idiom can be used in a business or professional context. Here, the "team" is identifying individuals who have potential, but may need some development or training to reach their full potential. By referring to them as rough diamonds, it highlights the possibility of greatness and the potential for growth.

    • He may not have the polish of a seasoned journalist, but he's definitely a rough diamond with a lot of potential.

      This example illustrates how the "rough diamond" idiom can be applied to people in certain professions, such as journalism. The "roughness" here might refer to a lack of experience or a less refined writing style, but the "diamond" still shines through, suggesting that this person has the potential to become a great journalist with a bit of honing.

    • The company has been struggling lately, but with a little bit of polishing, they can turn those rough diamonds on their team into shining stars.

      This example demonstrates how the idiom can be used in a larger business context. Here, "rough diamonds" refers to team members who may need development or training to reach their full potential. By referring to them as rough diamonds, it highlights the possibility of greatness and the potential for growth, while also suggesting that the company has the ability to transform them into valuable assets.


    Conclusion

    The idiom "rough diamond" is used to describe someone or something that has hidden potential or talent despite appearing unrefined or unpolished. It can also be used to refer to a person who may seem tough or intimidating on the outside, but is actually very kind-hearted and caring.

    In both cases, the idiom emphasizes the idea that appearances can be deceiving and that one should not judge solely based on outward appearances. It encourages people to look beyond the rough exterior and recognize the underlying value and potential.

    Origin of "Rough diamond"

    The origin of the idiom "rough diamond" can be traced back to the idea of a diamond in its natural, uncut state. A rough diamond may appear unattractive and unremarkable at first glance, but with the right cutting and polishing, it can become a valuable and beautiful gem.

    The idiom likely originated from this concept, with the idea that just like a rough diamond, a person or thing may have hidden potential that can be brought to light with the right care and attention. Over time, the phrase has evolved to be used metaphorically to describe people or things with untapped potential.