English idiom of the day: Black sheep

a black sheep:

an unusual or unique character within a group or family

someone who doesn’t belong

<This expression can have a negative nuance>

※This term traditionally described a person who caused their family shame or embarrassment. Today, however, the meaning can also mean unique or different.

Example 1:

“Karl is the black sheep of his family. All his parents, brothers, and sisters are doctors or police officers, but he wants to be a singer.”

Example 2:

The Nolan brothers are Jonathon and Christopher, both famous Hollywood directors, and Matthew, the black sheep who is in prison for kidnapping.