Japanese meaning of 臥竜鳳雛
Reading:
がりょうほうすう (garyou housuu)
English Translation:
Young person of great but hidden talent
Meaning & Cultural Context
Meaning:
A young person of great but as-yet-unrealized talent; a “sleeping dragon” or “phoenix chick” destined for greatness.
まだ世に現れていないが、将来大成すると期待される人物。
Cultural Context:
From Chinese historical tales (Zhuge Liang as “Wolong” and Pang Tong as “Fengchu”); used in sports, business, and education to praise promising newcomers.
中国史の故事（諸葛亮＝臥竜、龐統＝鳳雛）に由来。スポーツ・ビジネス・教育で有望な新人を称える比喩として使われる。
Grammar & Learning Points
Grammar Point
• Noun phrase for hidden talent; often with “と評される.”
Trap for English Speakers
May be mistaken as only for young people.
Example
Basic Example
彼は臥竜鳳雛と評される新人だ。
He is a newcomer described as a young person of great but hidden talent.
Applied Example
「お前みたいな臥竜鳳雛、いつか必ず全国大会で名を轟かせるさ。」
A young person of great but hidden talent like you will one day make a name for yourself at the national tournament.