Definition, Meaning & Synonyms
someone-is-a-dark-horse
idiom
/ˈdɑːrk hɔːrs/
Definition
A person whose talents or intentions are not widely known, often surprising others with their abilities or achievements.
Examples
- Despite being a newcomer, she turned out to be a dark horse in the competition, outperforming everyone.
- He was seen as a dark horse candidate in the election, gaining popularity at the last minute.
- Many of the players overlooked him, but he became a dark horse in the championship.
Meaning
The phrase ‘dark horse’ typically refers to someone who rises to prominence unexpectedly, often in competitive situations such as politics or sports.
Synonyms
- Underdog
- Surprise contender
- Unexpected player
