“Diamond In the Rough” Meaning, Origin and Examples

Last updated on October 11, 2024 by Liam Daniel

You might have come across the phrase “diamond in the rough” in English talks and wondered about its meaning. This reference covers the definition of the phrase, with examples to help you understand how to use it in daily conversations. By the end of this reference, you’ll feel more comfortable using this phrase confidently in your interactions.

Diamond In the Rough Meaning, Origin and Usage

Key Takeaways

  • When someone refers to someone or something as a diamond in the rough they are saying that that person or thing has great potential in what they do and with a little work could be something really great.
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Diamond In the Rough Meaning

“Diamond in the rough” is an idiom used to describe someone or something that has exceptional potential or value but is currently unrefined, unpolished, or not fully developed. It suggests that with effort, improvement, or refinement, the person or thing can become something truly remarkable, much like how a raw diamond can be transformed into a brilliant gem with polishing.

Origin of this Idiom

The term ‘diamond in the rough’ actually refers to a literal diamond, when it is first taken from the ground, it is not in the final, polished state that it will be when it is finished. But in its natural state, it is still extremely beautiful and amazing.

Usage of “Diamond In the Rough”

Here are some examples of its usage:

  1. In reference to a person: “Although he’s inexperienced, his creativity and hard work make him a diamond in the rough.”
  2. In business: “The startup may seem small now, but it’s a diamond in the rough with the potential to disrupt the industry.”
  3. In sports: “The young athlete’s skills are raw, but with proper coaching, he could be a diamond in the rough.”
  4. In real estate: “This house is a diamond in the rough—it just needs a bit of renovation to become a stunning property.”

Related Terms to “Diamond In the Rough”

  • Hidden gem – Something valuable or exceptional that is not widely recognized.
  • Untapped potential – Refers to abilities or qualities that haven’t been fully developed or utilized.
  • Raw talent – Natural ability that hasn’t yet been refined or polished.
  • Unpolished gem – Something valuable that needs development or refinement to reach its full potential.
  • Underdog – A person or team with unexpected potential to succeed despite the odds.
  • Work in progress – Something or someone that is still developing and has not yet reached its final form.
  • Sleeping giant – Something or someone with great but currently unrealized power or potential.
  • Rough around the edges – Describes someone or something with promise but lacking refinement or polish.
  • Buried treasure – Something valuable that is hidden or not immediately obvious.
  • Late bloomer – A person who takes longer than others to reach their full potential or success.

Other Ways to Say the Phrase

There are plenty of other ways in which you can refer to a diamond in the rough, here are some examples of different terms that carry the same meaning.

  • A rough diamond
  • A hidden gem
  • Underrated talents
  • Raw diamond

“Diamond In the Rough” Examples

Example Sentences

You would use this saying to describe a person who has a very good talent or potential and just needs the smallest amount of work to really make them stand out from the crowd. You might say

  • ‘Emma is a brilliant singer, she is truly a diamond in the rough.’

You could also use it to describe an item such as an antique, you could say

  • ‘I found a beautiful table last week, it’s a real diamond in the rough.’

More helpful examples:

  • I think that new singer is a diamond in the rough.
  • Talent scouts are always looking for a diamond in the rough.
  • Though the man I introduced to you last night looks somewhat boorish, he is a diamond in the rough.

Conversation Examples

Here are some examples of how the term ‘diamond in the rough’ might be heard in a conversation. In conversation one we see two people surprised at how someone was so good at what she does and saying that she is surprisingly talented. In the second conversation someone is talking about an antique which they think is beautiful but just needs a little polishing to be perfect.

Conversation 1:

  • Person 1: “Did you see Lauren dancing at the concert?”
  • Person 2: “I did, I had no idea she was such a diamond in the rough when it came to dancing.”

Conversation 2:

  • Person 1: “I found a beautiful antique necklace last week at the auction.”
  • Person 2: “Wow, that’s amazing, it’s a bit of a diamond in the rough but with a bit of polish it’ll come up as good as new.”
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