a pearl cast into darkness; unrecognized talent; precious thing unappreciated
Meanings
3 senses · 8 examplesidiom
to have one's talent go unrecognized; to be undervalued
literaryFocuses on the talent of a person not being recognized, often in a career or societal context.
This brilliant painter is like a pearl cast into darkness here; no one understands how to appreciate his work.
With a PhD, he's doing miscellaneous tasks at this small company; it's truly a waste of talent.
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In that seniority-based environment, many young people feel their talents are wasted.
Definition
for a good person to fall in with a bad crowd; to join a corrupt or evil group
literaryDescribes a moral failing where someone with good intentions or character becomes associated with a bad group or cause.
He was originally an upright official, but unfortunately, like a pearl cast into darkness, he joined that corrupt circle.
It's truly heartbreaking that this intelligent young man, like a pearl in the mud, was exploited by a criminal gang.
idiom
for a precious or valuable thing to go unappreciated; to be undiscovered or wasted
literaryExtends the metaphor to objects, ideas, or opportunities that are of high value but are ignored or not properly utilized.
This ancient painting has been left in the attic for years; it's a real treasure left in the dark.
This excellent business proposal was rejected by the board; it's a complete waste of a great opportunity.
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In neglected old bookstores, there are often good books that are like hidden pearls.