dark horse

• Человек, который проявляет неожиданный талант, успех или качества, особенно в соревновании или на выборах, часто изначально оставаясь незамеченным или недооценённым.

A person who reveals unexpected talent, success, or qualities, especially in a competition or election, often initially overlooked or underestimated.

1. Unexpected winnerB2informal

   A person or thing that wins or succeeds unexpectedly, especially in a competition or election.

   Тёмная лошадка

   • The new candidate was a dark horse in the presidential race.
   • Their team was the dark horse of the tournament, beating all the favorites.
   • She emerged as a dark horse to win the gold medal.

2. Mysterious personB2informal

   A person who is secretive or little known, but who may have surprising qualities or abilities.

   Тёмная лошадка

   • He's a bit of a dark horse; nobody knows much about his past.
   • She turned out to be a dark horse with a hidden talent for painting.
   • The quiet new employee was a dark horse who later became the CEO.