As the beloved Bard, Shakespeare, once said: “all that glitters is not gold”! Similarly, something that looks plain and unimportant at first glance might have unexpected value. That’s why we have the phrase “hidden gem” in English.
But are there any synonyms for “hidden gem” that we can use when we’re talking about valuable things and people? Read on to find out!
“Hidden Gem” Synonyms
- Diamond in the rough
- Underestimated
- Overlooked
- Few and far between
- Scarce
- Once in a blue moon
- Hole in one
- Lucky find
- Untapped treasure
- Underappreciated
- Off the beaten path
- Hole in the wall
- Easter egg
- Unexpected
KEY TAKEAWAYS
- A “diamond in the rough” is an alternative phrase to “hidden gem,” and refers to something of value beneath a less-than-pretty exterior.
- You can call a “hidden gem” “underestimated” since people will likely not realize its value.
- “Hidden gems” are often “overlooked” since their good qualities are not apparent on first impressions.
Keep reading! In the next section, we’ll discuss our top three words and phrases for a “hidden gem” in more detail.
Moreover, we’ll show you some great example sentences using each of our choices.
Diamond in the Rough
Another way to say “hidden gem” is “diamond in the rough.”
According to Merriam-Webster, a “diamond in the rough” is “one having exceptional qualities or potential but lacking refinement or polish.”
In other words, a “diamond in the rough” is something of great value hidden under a rough exterior. Therefore, its value may go unnoticed or unappreciated.
You can use the term “diamond in the rough” to refer to a person who may appear rough around the edges but has a very good character at their core. Thus, this phrase generally has very positive connotations.
Have a look at the example sentences below:
Sandor is a quintessential diamond in the rough; he comes across as brash and a bit rude, but he always does the right thing when the time comes.
My hometown is a diamond in the rough; beneath the dust and deary weather lives a truly loving community.
Underestimated
Another word for a “hidden gem” is “underestimated.” After all, a “hidden gem” is something very valuable that doesn’t get the recognition it is owed due to its underwhelming appearance.
Similarly, Merriam-Webster defines “underestimate” as “to place too low a value on.” This is a great alternative to go with since a “hidden gem” will inevitably be underestimated. A diamond that looks like stone won’t be considered very valuable, after all!
Moreover, it is easy to underestimate a person’s capabilities because of their appearance. After all, people often hide their exceptional skills and talents under a rather mundane façade.
Therefore, let’s see some examples making use of this term:
My team is often underestimated on account of its size, but you’ll find that I prioritized the quality of my agents over the quantity.
They underestimated me, and I suspect they will regret that decision.
Overlooked
“Hidden gems” will also frequently be “overlooked” since their value isn’t apparent at first glance.
Merriam-Webster defines “overlooked” as “not seen, noticed, or considered.” A “hidden gem” will not be noticed as much as an obviously pretty and valuable gem.
Similarly, a person may be “overlooked” if their talents or skills are not obvious at first glance. Therefore, the term “overlooked” has rather negative connotations.
See the examples below:
Despite being one of the greatest contributors to her genre, Tharpe was often overlooked.
Many times, the most important artifacts in the area are the most overlooked.