dark horse
Example Sentences
Examples are provided to illustrate real-world usage of words in context. Any opinions expressed do not reflect the views of Dictionary.com.
Norway may have been touted by many as this World Cup's dark horse but their impressive progress still feels like they have exceeded expectations.
From BBC ● Jul. 10, 2026
Now, on his main-draw debut on the Paris clay, Jodar has emerged as a dark horse for the Coupe des Mousquetaires.
From BBC ● Jun. 1, 2026
The 42-year-old dark horse contender has recently made more efforts in courting the Latino vote through meme-y internet tactics and has even employed Spanish to create a new nickname for Bass — “Karen Bassura.”
From Los Angeles Times ● Apr. 6, 2026
Three-time losing finalist Medvedev is a dark horse after winning the lead-up Brisbane International, while American Learner Tien spearheads the new guard fresh from lifting the ATP Next Gen title.
From Barron's ● Jan. 14, 2026
And Jan Dorlich, we discover, is a dark horse as an actor.
From "The Light in Hidden Places" by Sharon Cameron
