a dark horse

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "a dark horse" is correct and usable in written English.
It is typically used to describe a person or entity that is not well known or underestimated but has the potential to succeed or achieve something significant. Example: "In the upcoming election, the candidate from the small party is considered a dark horse, surprising everyone with their growing support."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Sports

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

55 human-written examples

Looking for a dark horse?

The New York Times

Facebook is a dark horse candidate.

The New York Times

"We could have a dark horse.

The New York Times

This Bat's a dark horse.

The Guardian - Music

The Dominican Republic is a dark horse.

The Times

Did he consider himself a dark horse?

The New York Times - Style

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

5 human-written examples

A dark-horse winner that came out of nowhere.

The Washington Post

Mr. Maazel appears to be a dark-horse candidate.

The New York Times - Arts

3. Dodgers: Russell Martin is a dark-horse M.V.P. candidate.

The New York Times

A dark-horse contender for this year's Booker Prize.

The Guardian - Books

These distractions aside, BlueLight emerged as a dark-horse winner.

The New York Times - Tech

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using the phrase, ensure the context clearly indicates that the subject is initially underestimated or unknown, but possesses qualities that could lead to success.

Common error

Avoid using "a dark horse" for well-known entities, even if their success is uncertain. The phrase hinges on the element of surprise and prior obscurity.

How to use

Learn how to use "a dark horse" with practical examples and tips.

How to use

Linguistic Context

The phrase "a dark horse" functions as a noun phrase that acts as a subject complement or appositive, describing a person or thing. Ludwig AI indicates that the phrase is correct and usable in written English. Examples show it being used to describe candidates, teams, and even technologies.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

78%

Sports

10%

Science

6%

Less common in

Wiki

3%

Encyclopedias

2%

Formal & Business

1%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The phrase "a dark horse" is a well-established idiom used to describe an unexpected contender or candidate who emerges to prominence. Ludwig AI confirms its correctness and usability. Its frequent appearance in news media and sports contexts highlights its role in portraying surprise success. Alternatives include ""an underdog"" or "a sleeper candidate". Understanding its correct usage, focusing on the initial obscurity of the subject, ensures effective communication. Therefore, "a dark horse" is a very common noun phrase adding a layer of intrigue to descriptions of individuals and entities.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

a dark contender

Similar to dark horse

an underdog

Focuses on the element of being at a disadvantage initially.

a little-known competitor

Highlights how the person was not known well previously

a sleeper candidate

Highlights the aspect of being unnoticed until suddenly gaining traction.

a long shot

Emphasizes the low probability of success.

a surprise contender

Stresses the unexpected nature of their challenge.

an unexpected frontrunner

Highlights that someone not expected to be doing well is suddenly leading

a hidden talent

Suggests previously unrecognized skill or potential.

a late bloomer

Implies delayed development or recognition.

a virtually unknown

Emphasizes the obscurity of the person or thing

FAQs

How can I use "a dark horse" in a sentence?

You can use "a dark horse" to describe someone or something that is not well-known but could be successful. For example, "He was considered "an underdog", but he emerged as a "dark horse" in the competition".

What does it mean when someone is called "a dark horse"?

Calling someone "a dark horse" means they are an unexpected or little-known candidate or competitor who might surprisingly win or succeed.

What can I say instead of "a dark horse"?

You can use alternatives like ""an underdog"", "a sleeper candidate", or "a long shot" depending on the context.

Is it appropriate to use "a dark horse" in formal writing?

Yes, "a dark horse" is acceptable in formal writing, especially when describing political or competitive situations, but always ensure the context is appropriate for idiomatic expressions.