English Idioms
Comprehensive resource for understanding and mastering English idioms
The rose that grew from concrete
Meaning
"The rose that grew from concrete" is an idiomatic expression used to describe someone or something that has overcome adversity or obstacles to achieve success. It suggests that even in the most challenging circumstances, it's possible to bloom into something beautiful and admirable. The idiom is often used to express admiration or inspiration for someone who has achieved great things despite facing difficulties.
Usage
- "She came from a rough background but managed to become one of the most successful entrepreneurs in the city." (metaphorical Meaning she overcame adversity to achieve success)
- "Despite being born into poverty, he became an accomplished musician and played at some of the world's biggest venues." (metaphorical Meaning he overcame poverty to achieve success)
- "The school in which I grew up was very rough, but many of my classmates went on to become successful artists." (metaphorical Meaning they overcame a difficult environment to achieve success)
- "I used to be very timid and unsure of myself, but after facing many challenges in life, I have become much stronger and more confident." (figurative Meaning the challenges helped me grow into a more confident person)
- "The city's park system is often criticized for being poorly maintained and outdated, but the volunteers who work there are dedicated to creating something beautiful from the concrete jungle." (metaphorical Meaning they are working to create a beautiful environment despite the challenges they face)
Roots and History
The idiom "the rose that grew from concrete" has its roots in the 1970s, with one of the earliest known uses appearing in a poem by Katherine Paterson titled "The Concrete Rose." In the poem, Paterson writes about a young girl who grows up in poverty and overcomes adversity to become a successful artist. The phrase quickly gained popularity and was later used as the title of a novel by Paterson and a movie adaptation of the same name. Over time, the idiom has become more widely used and has taken on different meanings depending on the context. It is often used in a positive way to express admiration or inspiration for someone who has achieved success despite facing difficulties.
Synonyms in English
- Against all odds
- Against the grain
- From humble beginnings
- From nothing
- Overcoming adversity
Synonyms in other languages
- Spanish: "De humillos a gloria" (From humble beginnings to glory)
- French: "Du fond du trou" (From the bottom of the pit)
- German: "Von kleinsten Schiffen" (From the smallest boats)
- Italian: "Da sembianze di nulla" (From nothingness)
- Portuguese: "De pequenas raízes" (From small roots)