Diamond in the Rough – Meaning, Origin & Usage
The phrase “diamond in the rough” may not be one that you hear everyday. However, it certainly has its place as an English idiom, and has even been used in Disney films.
In this article, you will learn what the phrase means and how it originated, before we delve into examples and how the phrase continues to be used today. Including in film and literature. We will also touch on related phrases that can be used in place of the phrase.
And without further ado, let’s get straight to it.
What does the phrase “diamond in the rough” mean?
The phrase “diamond in the rough” is used to describe a person of great character or potential but is lacking in refinement In their appearance and manner. The phrase is used to describe someone or something that appears ordinary or unrefined but has hidden exceptional qualities or potential.
Historical origins of the phrase “diamond in the rough”
While the precise origin of the term “diamond in the rough” is unclear, there is reason to believe that it dates back to the 1600s. A very similar phrase was used in a play by John Fletcher in1624 called A Wife for a Month where a character is described by another as follows: “She is very honest, and will be as hard to cut as a rough diamond”.
Examples of how the phrase “diamond in the rough” can be used today
- “The house is a diamond in the rough, and with some hard work it will be really beautiful”.
- “This film was one of those diamonds in the rough – a wonderful gem that almost no one had noticed”
- “Her singing voice is beautiful, but she needs help with her gestures; she’s a diamond in the rough”.
Use of the phrase “diamond in the rough” in the media
“Diamond in the Rough” is a song from the Disney Broadway musical Aladdin. In the song, Jafar and Iago sing, “Beneath the dirt and patches / You are a diamond in the rough”.
Aladdin is considered a diamond in the rough because his character and worth are not determined by his surroundings. He is virtuous and chooses to be a faithful friend over being rich or powerful. Aladdin: Diamond in the Rough is the name of a Disney book for young children published in 2019.
Related phrases and idioms
Here follows a brief list of synonyms for “diamond in the rough” that you can choose to use in its place:
- Hidden gem
- Undeveloped talent
- Underestimated
- Dark horse
- Has raw talent
- Rough diamond
- Uncut diamond
- Prototype
- Latent genius
- Underappreciated
- Undervalued
- Underrated talent
Final word
So, to summarise, the phrase “diamond in the rough” is used to describe a person of great character or potential but is lacking in refinement In their appearance and manner. The phrase dates back to the 1600’s but is still in use today. Synonyms that you can use in place of “diamond in the rough” include “hidden gem”, and “undeveloped talent”.
