A dark horse

usgb
noun

A person whose abilities or potential are not yet fully known but could be a surprise and accomplish more than what is expected.

Nobody expected him to win the race, he was really a dark horse.
Visual representation of "a dark horse" - A person whose abilities or potential are not yet fully known but could be a surprise and accomplish more than what is expected.

Often appears as...

  • he's a dark horse
  • be a dark horse

Usage tips

Idiomatic

Definition 1 of 2
Visual representation of "a dark horse"
LampPro Tip 1/3

Surprise Element

Refers to someone having unexpected talents or abilities.

Illustration for Surprise Element
He turned out to be a dark horse, impressing everyone with his piano skills.
LampPro Tip 2/3

Unassumingly Skilled

Indicates a person who is modest about their skills may have much more to offer.

Illustration for Unassumingly Skilled
She didn't boast, but in the competition, she was a dark horse.
LampPro Tip 3/3

Hidden Potential

Implies that someone's true ability has not been revealed yet.

Illustration for Hidden Potential
With his innovative ideas, Mark was definitely a dark horse in the company.
Visual representation of the word "A dark horse"

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