Top 55 Slang For Rarer – Meaning & Usage

When it comes to using slang for “rarer” situations, it can be a bit tricky to keep up with the ever-evolving language trends. Fear not, as we’ve got you covered with a curated list of the most unique and lesser-known slang terms that are sure to add some flair to your vocabulary. Get ready to impress your friends and dive into this listicle to discover the hidden gems of the English language!

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1. Scarce as hen’s teeth

This phrase is used to describe something that is extremely rare or hard to find. It compares the rarity of something to the scarcity of hen’s teeth, as hens do not have teeth.

For example, “Finding a parking spot in this crowded city is as scarce as hen’s teeth.”
In a discussion about collectibles, someone might say, “Vintage baseball cards from the 1920s are as scarce as hen’s teeth.”
A person might comment, “Opportunities like this come around as scarce as hen’s teeth.”

2. Unicorn

In slang, a “unicorn” refers to something or someone that is rare and highly desirable. It often describes a person who possesses unique qualities or characteristics.

For instance, “Finding a loyal and kind-hearted partner is like finding a unicorn.”
In a conversation about job opportunities, someone might say, “A high-paying job with great work-life balance is a unicorn in this industry.”
A person might comment, “A truly selfless act of kindness is as rare as a unicorn.”

3. Once in a blue moon

This phrase is used to describe something that happens very rarely or only on special occasions. It refers to the occurrence of a second full moon within a calendar month, which happens infrequently.

For example, “I only see my childhood friends once in a blue moon.”
In a discussion about travel, someone might say, “Visiting a remote island paradise like this happens once in a blue moon.”
A person might comment, “Getting a promotion at work without any effort is a once in a blue moon opportunity.”

4. Diamond in the rough

This phrase is used to describe something or someone that has great potential but is not yet fully developed or recognized. It compares the unpolished state of a diamond to the untapped potential of a person or thing.

For instance, “He may seem rough around the edges, but he’s a diamond in the rough.”
In a conversation about undiscovered talent, someone might say, “This unsigned musician is a diamond in the rough.”
A person might comment, “This dilapidated house has potential to be a diamond in the rough with some renovations.”

5. Rare gem

In slang, a “rare gem” refers to something or someone that is exceptionally unique and valuable. It often describes a person or thing that stands out from the rest due to its exceptional qualities.

For example, “She’s a rare gem in a sea of mediocrity.”
In a discussion about art, someone might say, “This painting is a rare gem that captures the essence of the artist’s vision.”
A person might comment, “Finding a genuine friend like him is a rare gem in today’s world.”

6. Scarce resource

This term refers to a resource or item that is difficult to find or obtain. It implies that the resource is in limited supply or high demand.

For example, “Clean drinking water is a scarce resource in some parts of the world.”
In a discussion about renewable energy, someone might say, “Solar power is not a scarce resource, unlike fossil fuels.”
A person might complain, “The pandemic has made toilet paper a scarce resource.”

7. Uncommon occurrence

This phrase describes an event or situation that is not common or happens infrequently. It suggests that the occurrence is unusual or noteworthy.

For instance, “Seeing a shooting star is an uncommon occurrence.”
In a conversation about weather, someone might say, “Snow in this region is an uncommon occurrence.”
A person might comment, “Winning the lottery is a rarity.”

8. Rare species

This term refers to a type of living organism that is not commonly found in a particular area or has a low population. It often implies that the species is at risk of becoming extinct.

For example, “The black rhinoceros is a rare species.”
In a discussion about conservation, someone might say, “Protecting the habitat is crucial for preserving rare species.”
A person might express concern, “The destruction of forests is causing the decline of many rare species.”

9. Rare breed

This phrase describes a particular type or category of something that is not commonly found. It suggests that the breed is distinct or uncommon.

For instance, “The Scottish Fold is a rare breed of cat.”
In a conversation about dogs, someone might say, “The Xoloitzcuintli is a rare breed.”
A person might comment, “Finding vintage vinyl records is like discovering a rare breed.”

10. Scarce variety

This term refers to a limited range or choice of options available. It implies that the variety is not abundant or easily accessible.

For example, “The store had a scarce variety of fruits and vegetables.”
In a discussion about fashion, someone might say, “The boutique offers a scarce variety of designer clothing.”
A person might complain, “Living in a small town means having a scarce variety of restaurants to choose from.”

11. Rare occurrence

This phrase is used to describe something that happens infrequently or is not commonly seen. It emphasizes the rarity or unusualness of the event.

For example, “Seeing a shooting star is a rare occurrence.”
In a conversation about weather, someone might say, “A snowstorm in this region is a rare occurrence.”
A person discussing accidents might comment, “A plane crash is a rare occurrence in commercial aviation.”

12. Rare sight

This term is used to describe something that is not commonly seen or is unusual to witness. It emphasizes the rarity or uncommonness of the sight.

For instance, “Spotting a double rainbow is a rare sight.”
In a discussion about wildlife, someone might say, “Seeing a bald eagle in the wild is a rare sight.”
A person sharing a travel experience might mention, “Witnessing the Northern Lights was a rare sight.”

13. Scarce as gold

This phrase compares the rarity of something to the precious metal gold, emphasizing its scarcity. It implies that the item or occurrence is extremely rare or hard to find.

For example, “Finding a parking spot in this area is as scarce as gold.”
In a conversation about collectibles, someone might say, “Vintage coins in mint condition are scarce as gold.”
A person discussing job opportunities might comment, “In this economy, good-paying jobs are scarce as gold.”

14. Rare as a blue rose

This expression compares the rarity of something to a blue rose, which is considered extremely rare as blue roses do not naturally occur. It emphasizes the exceptional uncommonness of the item or occurrence.

For instance, “Finding true love can be as rare as a blue rose.”
In a discussion about art, someone might say, “Original Picasso paintings are rare as a blue rose.”
A person sharing a personal experience might mention, “Encountering genuine kindness in today’s world is rare as a blue rose.”

15. Rare as a four-leaf clover

This phrase compares the rarity of something to finding a four-leaf clover, which is considered very rare as most clovers have three leaves. It emphasizes the extraordinary uncommonness of the item or occurrence.

For example, “Spotting a shooting star and making a wish is as rare as a four-leaf clover.”
In a conversation about luck, someone might say, “Winning the lottery is rare as a four-leaf clover.”
A person discussing opportunities might comment, “Getting a promotion without any qualifications is rare as a four-leaf clover.”

16. Rare as a shooting star

This phrase is used to describe something that is extremely uncommon or hard to find, similar to the rarity of seeing a shooting star in the night sky.

For example, “Finding true love can be as rare as a shooting star.”
A person might say, “Opportunities like this come as rare as a shooting star, so don’t miss out.”
In a discussion about collectibles, someone might mention, “Vintage comic books in mint condition are as rare as a shooting star.”

17. Scarce as a unicorn’s horn

This expression is used to describe something that is extremely scarce or hard to come by, similar to the scarcity of a unicorn’s horn.

For instance, “Finding a parking spot in this area is as scarce as a unicorn’s horn.”
A person might say, “In today’s market, affordable housing is becoming as scarce as a unicorn’s horn.”
In a discussion about rare gemstones, someone might mention, “Natural red diamonds are as scarce as a unicorn’s horn.”

18. Rare as a mermaid’s tear

This phrase is used to describe something that is very rare or seldom seen, similar to the rarity of a mermaid’s tear.

For example, “Encountering a kind person in this cruel world is as rare as a mermaid’s tear.”
A person might say, “Opportunities like this come as rare as a mermaid’s tear, so don’t let it slip away.”
In a discussion about natural phenomena, someone might mention, “Witnessing the Northern Lights is as rare as a mermaid’s tear.”

19. Scarce as a phoenix feather

This expression is used to describe something that is extremely scarce or hard to find, similar to the scarcity of a phoenix feather.

For instance, “Getting a perfect score on this test is as scarce as a phoenix feather.”
A person might say, “In today’s market, job security is becoming as scarce as a phoenix feather.”
In a discussion about rare artifacts, someone might mention, “Ancient manuscripts from that era are as scarce as a phoenix feather.”

20. Rare as a dragon’s scale

This phrase is used to describe something that is very rare or seldom found, similar to the rarity of a dragon’s scale.

For example, “Finding a genuine Picasso painting is as rare as a dragon’s scale.”
A person might say, “Opportunities like this come as rare as a dragon’s scale, so seize it.”
In a discussion about mythical creatures, someone might mention, “Encountering a live dragon is as rare as a dragon’s scale.”

21. Scarce as a leprechaun’s gold

This phrase is used to describe something that is very scarce or hard to find, similar to the elusive gold that leprechauns are said to possess.

For example, “Finding a parking spot in this crowded city is as scarce as a leprechaun’s gold.”
When talking about a limited edition item, one might say, “These sneakers are as scarce as a leprechaun’s gold, they sell out within minutes.”
A person might use this phrase to express surprise, saying, “I can’t believe you found that rare vinyl record, it’s as scarce as a leprechaun’s gold!”

22. Rare as a yeti sighting

This expression is used to describe something that is extremely rare or seldom seen, similar to a sighting of the legendary yeti creature.

For instance, “Finding a vintage comic book in mint condition is as rare as a yeti sighting.”
When discussing a unique event, one might say, “Getting a perfect score on that test is as rare as a yeti sighting.”
A person might use this phrase to emphasize the rarity of a situation, saying, “Seeing a shooting star is already rare, but seeing two in one night? That’s as rare as a yeti sighting!”

23. Scarce as a ghost’s whisper

This phrase is used to describe something that is extremely scarce or hard to come by, similar to the barely audible whisper of a ghost.

For example, “Finding a parking spot in this busy shopping district is as scarce as a ghost’s whisper.”
When talking about a limited edition collectible, one might say, “These action figures are as scarce as a ghost’s whisper, they sell out instantly.”
A person might use this phrase to express disbelief, saying, “You managed to get tickets to the sold-out concert? That’s as scarce as a ghost’s whisper!”

24. Rare as a genie’s wish

This expression is used to describe something that is uncommon or not easily obtained, similar to the granting of a wish by a genie.

For instance, “Finding true love is as rare as a genie’s wish.”
When discussing a valuable item, one might say, “This antique necklace is as rare as a genie’s wish, it’s one of a kind.”
A person might use this phrase to express surprise, saying, “You managed to find that rare book? That’s as rare as a genie’s wish!”

25. Scarce as a pirate’s treasure

This phrase is used to describe something that is extremely scarce or hard to find, similar to the hidden treasures sought after by pirates.

For example, “Finding a parking spot in this crowded area is as scarce as a pirate’s treasure.”
When talking about a limited edition item, one might say, “These sneakers are as scarce as a pirate’s treasure, they sell out within seconds.”
A person might use this phrase to express amazement, saying, “You managed to find that rare antique? That’s as scarce as a pirate’s treasure!”

26. Scarce as gold dust

This phrase is used to describe something that is very difficult to find or obtain. It compares the rarity of the item to gold dust, which is extremely scarce.

For example, “Finding a parking spot in this area is as scarce as gold dust.”
When talking about a limited edition collectible, someone might say, “These figurines are scarce as gold dust.”
In a discussion about rare gemstones, one might mention, “Blue diamonds are as scarce as gold dust.”

27. Scarce as pearls

This phrase is used to describe something that is not easily found or obtained. It compares the rarity of the item to pearls, which are precious and uncommon.

For instance, “Opportunities like this are as scarce as pearls.”
When talking about a rare book, someone might say, “First edition copies are scarce as pearls.”
In a discussion about unique fashion pieces, one might mention, “Vintage Chanel bags are as scarce as pearls.”

28. Scarce as diamonds

This phrase is used to describe something that is extremely uncommon or hard to find. It compares the rarity of the item to diamonds, which are known for their scarcity and value.

For example, “Finding true love can be as scarce as diamonds.”
When talking about a limited edition artwork, someone might say, “Original prints are scarce as diamonds.”
In a discussion about rare musical instruments, one might mention, “Vintage guitars from that era are as scarce as diamonds.”

29. Scarce as rubies

This phrase is used to describe something that is very rare or scarce. It compares the rarity of the item to rubies, which are precious gemstones that are not easily found.

For instance, “Authentic antique furniture is as scarce as rubies.”
When talking about a rare species of plant, someone might say, “These flowers are scarce as rubies.”
In a discussion about collectible coins, one might mention, “Coins from that era are as scarce as rubies.”

30. Scarce as emeralds

This phrase is used to describe something that is not readily available or common. It compares the rarity of the item to emeralds, which are valuable gemstones that are not easily obtained.

For example, “Opportunities like this are as scarce as emeralds.”
When talking about a rare piece of artwork, someone might say, “Original paintings by that artist are scarce as emeralds.”
In a discussion about rare stamps, one might mention, “Stamps from that era are as scarce as emeralds.”

31. Scarce as sapphires

This phrase is used to describe something that is very hard to find or obtain. It compares the rarity of the item to the scarcity of sapphires, which are known for their beauty and value.

For example, “Finding a parking spot in this crowded city is as scarce as sapphires.”
In a discussion about collectible items, someone might say, “Vintage comic books in mint condition are as scarce as sapphires.”
A person talking about a rare species of butterfly might comment, “Spotting one in the wild is as scarce as sapphires.”

32. Scarce as platinum

This expression is used to describe something that is extremely uncommon or hard to come by. It compares the scarcity of the item to the rarity of platinum, which is a precious metal known for its value and rarity.

For instance, “Finding true love is as scarce as platinum.”
In a discussion about valuable gemstones, someone might say, “Natural pink diamonds are as scarce as platinum.”
A person talking about a limited edition item might mention, “Getting your hands on one is as scarce as platinum.”

33. Scarce as silver

This phrase is used to describe something that is relatively uncommon or not easily found. It compares the scarcity of the item to the rarity of silver, which is a precious metal but more common than platinum or sapphires.

For example, “Finding a good parking spot in this area is as scarce as silver.”
In a discussion about antique furniture, someone might say, “Authentic Victorian chairs are as scarce as silver.”
A person talking about a limited edition sneaker might comment, “Getting a pair in your size is as scarce as silver.”

34. Scarce as copper

This expression is used to describe something that is uncommon or not easily found. It compares the scarcity of the item to the rarity of copper, which is a common metal but still less abundant than silver or bronze.

For instance, “Finding a quiet coffee shop in this bustling city is as scarce as copper.”
In a discussion about vintage coins, someone might say, “Pre-1964 silver quarters are as scarce as copper.”
A person talking about a limited edition book might mention, “Finding a copy in good condition is as scarce as copper.”

35. Scarce as bronze

This phrase is used to describe something that is somewhat uncommon or not easily obtainable. It compares the scarcity of the item to the rarity of bronze, which is a common metal but less rare than copper or silver.

For example, “Finding a parking spot near the entrance is as scarce as bronze.”
In a discussion about antique jewelry, someone might say, “Victorian-era brooches are as scarce as bronze.”
A person talking about a limited edition vinyl record might comment, “Getting a copy in good condition is as scarce as bronze.”

36. Scarce as brass

This phrase is used to describe something that is very difficult to find or obtain. It implies that the item or resource is as rare as brass, which is not commonly found in large quantities.

For example, “Finding a parking spot in this crowded city is as scarce as brass.”
In a discussion about limited edition collectibles, someone might say, “That action figure is scarce as brass.”
A person searching for a specific item might exclaim, “I’ve been looking for that book everywhere, it’s as scarce as brass!”

37. Scarce as steel

This phrase is used to describe something that is uncommon or hard to come by. It suggests that the item or resource is as scarce as steel, which is not easily found in large quantities.

For instance, “Finding a reliable mechanic in this town is as scarce as steel.”
In a conversation about rare gemstones, someone might comment, “That diamond is scarce as steel.”
A person looking for a specific ingredient might say, “I’ve been to multiple stores, but fresh basil is as scarce as steel!”

38. Scarce as iron

This phrase is used to describe something that is not easily found or obtained. It implies that the item or resource is as rare as iron, which is not commonly available in large quantities.

For example, “Finding a good job in this economy is as scarce as iron.”
In a discussion about antique furniture, someone might say, “That table is scarce as iron.”
A person searching for a particular item might exclaim, “I’ve been to every store, but that product is as scarce as iron!”

39. Scarce as lead

This phrase is used to describe something that is hard to find or acquire. It suggests that the item or resource is as rare as lead, which is not easily obtained in large quantities.

For instance, “Finding a reliable babysitter on short notice is as scarce as lead.”
In a conversation about limited edition sneakers, someone might comment, “Those shoes are scarce as lead.”
A person looking for a specific tool might say, “I’ve checked every store, but that wrench is as scarce as lead!”

40. Scarce as mercury

This phrase is used to describe something that is extremely rare or hard to find. It implies that the item or resource is as scarce as mercury, which is not commonly found in large quantities.

For example, “Finding a genuine Picasso painting is as scarce as mercury.”
In a discussion about rare coins, someone might say, “That gold coin is scarce as mercury.”
A person searching for a specific record might exclaim, “I’ve been to countless record stores, but that album is as scarce as mercury!”

41. Scarce as uranium

This phrase is used to describe something that is incredibly difficult to find or obtain. It references the scarcity of uranium, a valuable and highly sought-after element.

For example, “Finding a vintage car in mint condition is as scarce as uranium.”
In a discussion about collectible items, someone might say, “Rare baseball cards from the 1950s are as scarce as uranium.”
A person searching for a specific book might exclaim, “It’s like trying to find a copy of that novel, it’s as scarce as uranium!”

42. Scarce as plutonium

Similar to the previous phrase, this expression describes something that is extremely difficult to find or obtain. It compares the rarity of the item to that of plutonium, a highly radioactive element that is not naturally abundant.

For instance, “Locating an original painting by a famous artist is as scarce as plutonium.”
In a conversation about valuable gemstones, someone might mention, “Natural red diamonds are as scarce as plutonium.”
A person discussing limited edition collectibles might say, “Finding a complete set of those action figures is as scarce as plutonium!”

43. Scarce as radium

This phrase is used to describe something that is uncommon or hard to come by. It references the scarcity of radium, a radioactive element that was historically used in various industries but is now highly regulated.

For example, “Finding a vintage piece of furniture in pristine condition is as scarce as radium.”
In a discussion about rare coins, someone might say, “Silver dollars from the 1800s are as scarce as radium.”
A person searching for a specific vinyl record might exclaim, “It’s like trying to find that album, it’s as scarce as radium!”

44. One in a million

This phrase is used to describe something that is exceedingly rare or unique. It emphasizes the idea that there is only one occurrence out of a million possibilities.

For instance, “Finding true love can feel like finding a needle in a haystack, it’s one in a million.”
In a conversation about extraordinary talents, someone might say, “His ability to play the piano blindfolded is one in a million.”
A person discussing rare genetic conditions might mention, “The chances of being born with that disorder are one in a million.”

45. Scarce as rocking horse manure

This humorous phrase is used to describe something that is extremely scarce or hard to find. It plays on the idea that horse manure is already uncommon, and the idea of finding manure from a rocking horse is even more unlikely.

For example, “Getting a ticket to that sold-out concert is as scarce as rocking horse manure.”
In a discussion about valuable antiques, someone might say, “Authentic Victorian jewelry is as scarce as rocking horse manure.”
A person searching for a specific toy might exclaim, “It’s like trying to find that limited edition action figure, it’s as scarce as rocking horse manure!”

46. Rare as a blue moon

This phrase is used to describe something that is very rare or unlikely to happen. The phrase “blue moon” refers to the occurrence of a second full moon in a calendar month, which happens infrequently.

For example, “Finding a four-leaf clover is as rare as a blue moon.”
A person might say, “Getting a perfect score on that test is as rare as a blue moon.”
In a conversation about winning the lottery, someone might comment, “The chances of winning are as rare as a blue moon.”

47. Rare as a unicorn

This phrase is used to describe something that is extremely rare or almost impossible to find. It draws on the mythical creature, the unicorn, which is often depicted as rare and magical.

For instance, “Finding true love is as rare as a unicorn.”
A person might say, “Encountering an albino animal in the wild is as rare as a unicorn.”
In a discussion about rare collectibles, someone might say, “That vintage comic book is as rare as a unicorn.”

48. Rare as diamonds

This phrase is used to describe something that is very rare and highly prized. Diamonds are known for their rarity and value, making them a fitting comparison.

For example, “Finding a loyal friend like her is as rare as diamonds.”
A person might say, “Coming across a vintage car in such pristine condition is as rare as diamonds.”
In a conversation about rare gemstones, someone might comment, “The Hope Diamond is as rare as diamonds.”

49. Rare as hens’ teeth

This phrase is used to describe something that is exceptionally rare or hard to find. It plays on the fact that hens do not have teeth, making the idea of finding hen’s teeth virtually impossible.

For instance, “Finding an honest politician is as rare as hens’ teeth.”
A person might say, “Getting tickets to that sold-out concert is as rare as hens’ teeth.”
In a discussion about rare books, someone might comment, “First edition copies are as rare as hens’ teeth.”

50. Rare as rocking horse manure

This phrase is used to describe something that is extremely rare or nonexistent. It humorously compares rarity to the idea of finding manure from a rocking horse, which is highly unlikely.

For example, “Finding a parking spot in this crowded area is as rare as rocking horse manure.”
A person might say, “Seeing a shooting star is as rare as rocking horse manure.”
In a conversation about finding a specific item, someone might comment, “That vintage toy is as rare as rocking horse manure.”

51. Scarce as hen’s teeth in winter

This phrase is used to describe something that is extremely rare or hard to find, especially during a specific time or season. It emphasizes the rarity of the item or occurrence.

For example, “Finding a parking spot in this crowded city is as scarce as hen’s teeth in winter.”
In a discussion about collectibles, someone might say, “Vintage comic books in mint condition are scarce as hen’s teeth in winter.”
Another might comment, “Good luck finding a hotel room during peak tourist season. They’re as scarce as hen’s teeth in winter.”

52. Scarce as panda sightings

This phrase is used to describe something that is very rare or uncommon, comparing it to the rarity of seeing a panda in the wild. It highlights the scarcity or infrequency of the occurrence.

For instance, “Opportunities like this are as scarce as panda sightings.”
In a conversation about unique experiences, someone might say, “Seeing the Northern Lights in person is as scarce as panda sightings.”
Another might mention, “Finding a job with great benefits and work-life balance is as scarce as panda sightings in the job market.”

53. Scarce as snow in summer

This phrase is used to describe something that is incredibly rare or unlikely to happen, comparing it to the rarity of seeing snowfall during the summer season. It emphasizes the extreme scarcity or unlikelihood of the occurrence.

For example, “Getting a promotion without putting in any effort is as scarce as snow in summer.”
In a discussion about winning the lottery, someone might say, “The chances of winning the jackpot are as scarce as snow in summer.”
Another might comment, “Finding true love at first sight is as scarce as snow in summer.”

54. Scarce as teeth in a hen

This phrase is used to describe something that is extremely rare or nonexistent, comparing it to the absence of teeth in a hen. It emphasizes the complete lack or extreme scarcity of the item or occurrence.

For instance, “Finding an honest politician is as scarce as teeth in a hen.”
In a conversation about finding a specific item, someone might say, “Finding that limited edition collectible is as scarce as teeth in a hen.”
Another might mention, “Getting a good night’s sleep with a newborn baby is as scarce as teeth in a hen.”

55. Scarce as unicorn tears

This phrase is used to describe something that is exceptionally rare or almost impossible to find, comparing it to the mythical tears of a unicorn. It emphasizes the extraordinary scarcity or unlikelihood of the item or occurrence.

For example, “Finding a reliable and affordable mechanic is as scarce as unicorn tears.”
In a discussion about rare gemstones, someone might say, “Natural red diamonds are as scarce as unicorn tears.”
Another might comment, “Getting a front-row seat at a popular concert is as scarce as unicorn tears.”