The idiom "ugly duckling" refers to a person or thing that appears unattractive or unremarkable at first, but later turns out to be beautiful or impressive. The phrase comes from the famous children's story "The Ugly Duckling" by Hans Christian Andersen, in which a young duckling is mocked and rejected by its peers for being different and unattractive, but eventually grows into a beautiful swan.
In everyday conversation, we use the term "ugly duckling" to describe someone or something that is initially underestimated or undervalued, but later proves to be exceptional or successful. For example, you might describe a shy and awkward child who grows up to be a confident and successful adult as an "ugly duckling." Similarly, a small and unassuming startup company that becomes a major player in its industry could be called an "ugly duckling" business.
Overall, the idiom "ugly duckling" is a way to express the idea that appearances can be deceiving, and that people or things should not be judged solely on their initial appearance or impression.
• The new student felt like an ugly duckling in the classroom as everyone else seemed to know each other.
• The old, rundown building was an ugly duckling in the neighborhood until it was renovated and turned into a modern apartment complex.
• Despite growing up in poverty and facing numerous challenges, she persevered and became a successful entrepreneur, proving that she was just an ugly duckling.
• The scruffy and unkempt dog that nobody wanted turned out to be an excellent guard dog, proving that he was just an ugly duckling.
• Despite being a shy and awkward teenager, she blossomed into a beautiful young woman, proving that she was just an ugly duckling.
• The small, unknown band that no one paid attention to suddenly became a sensation after releasing their first album, proving that they were just an ugly duckling.