hidden genius; unrecognized talent
Yojijukugo referring to a gifted young person whose exceptional ability is not yet widely known, like a crouching dragon or a young phoenix. Used in literary or formal contexts.
He is truly a hidden genius; sooner or later the world will recognize him.
麒麟児 also means a prodigy or exceptionally gifted young person, but it emphasizes outstanding talent that is already apparent, while 伏竜鳳雛 stresses hidden or unrecognized potential.
A yojijukugo of Chinese origin, combining 伏竜 (hidden dragon) and 鳳雛 (young phoenix), both metaphors for unrecognized genius.