(あらけず)

あらけずり
noun, na-adjective
rough-hewn; unpolished; raw but promising
descriptive
1. rough-hewn, roughly carved, coarsely shaved
The literal sense of something that has been carved or planed only roughly, without fine finishing. Used for wood, stone, or other materials.
To finish roughly-hewn lumber.
I made a bench from roughly hewn logs.
A simple table that makes use of the texture of rough-hewn wood is gaining popularity.
2. unpolished, rough but promising, raw talent
Used figuratively to describe a person, work, or performance that lacks refinement but shows raw power or potential. Often a compliment implying that the roughness is part of the appeal or that the person has room to grow.
まだ荒削(あらけず)りだ才能(さいのう)ある
He's still unpolished, but he has talent.
His acting is rough around the edges, but he has the power to captivate the audience.
Although the debut work is unpolished, the author's unique worldview shines through, making them a writer to watch.

Usage

In the figurative sense, 荒削(あらけず)り is often used as a backhanded compliment, acknowledging that something or someone lacks refinement while praising the raw potential underneath. Particularly common in sports, arts, and entertainment commentary.

Common collocations