潜せん龍りゅう

noun

hidden dragon; person biding their time; heir waiting to ascend the throne; great talent yet to make their mark

Literary Chinese-derived term for a person of great ability or potential who is currently hidden or waiting for the right moment. Often used metaphorically for a capable person lying low, a crown prince, or an unrecognized genius.

• 彼かれはまさに潜せん龍りゅうだ。今いまは目め立だたないが、いずれ頭とう角かくを現あらわすだろう。

  He is truly a hidden dragon. He doesn't stand out now, but he will eventually make his mark.

• 潜せん龍りゅうの時じ期きを経へて、彼かれはついに社しゃ長ちょうに就しゅう任にんした。

  After a period of lying low, he finally became the company president.