we have a gem of - what does it mean?

[panosgr]

Hello there,

What does the term "we have a gem of, eg. choir leader" mean?

Thanks

[Neillythere]

Hi panosgr

A gem is essentially a precious, potentialy priceless/irreplaceable object.
When referring to a person, it has a similar meaning.

see: AskOxford: gem

gem

• noun
1 a precious or semi-precious stone, especially one that has been cut and polished.
2 an outstanding person or thing.
— ORIGIN Latin gemma ‘bud, jewel’.

Hope this helps
NT

[panosgr]

many thanks! your reply was very useful

[BobK]

A bit of associated vocabulary: note the word "polished" in that definition. A person who has the potential to become a 'gem' can be referred to as a 'rough diamond'.

b

[panosgr]

interesting:)