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Synonyms

rough diamond

British  

noun

  1. an unpolished diamond

  2. an intrinsically trustworthy or good person with uncouth manners or dress

"Collins English Dictionary — Complete & Unabridged" 2012 Digital Edition © William Collins Sons & Co. Ltd. 1979, 1986 © HarperCollins Publishers 1998, 2000, 2003, 2005, 2006, 2007, 2009, 2012

Example Sentences

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It said "rough diamond trading conditions are expected to remain challenging in the near-term" with production decreasing and several producers closing mines.

From Barron's Jul. 13, 2026

Klopp and his coaching staff have undoubtedly polished a player who was a rough diamond when he signed for £64m from Benfica in 2022.

From BBC Feb. 17, 2024

Becker signalled he would focus on the mental side of the game and described Rune as “a rough diamond that needs polishing.”

From Washington Times Oct. 19, 2023

But this rough diamond in the crown of Seattle parks is worth the effort — no gas lighting required.

From Seattle Times Jul. 20, 2023

"Oh, a rough diamond with a beard to his middle, and a voice like a bull, who did his best to stand on his head in a bucket of champagne."

From Denis Dent A Novel by Hornung, Ernest W.

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