Definition, Meaning & Synonyms

a-flash-in-the-pan

idiom
/ə ˌflæʃ ɪn ðə pæn/
Definition
A brief and temporary success or occurrence that is unlikely to be repeated.
Examples
  • His early success in the music industry turned out to be just a flash in the pan, as he never released another hit.
  • The company’s latest product was a flash in the pan, gaining attention for a week before sales dropped.
Meaning
This phrase describes something that appears promising or successful for a moment but ultimately leads to nothing substantial or lasting.
Synonyms
  • brief success
  • temporary success
  • one-hit wonder