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Definitions

flash in the pan

NOUN
momentary success
Synonyms
WEAK
brief success bugbear dud fad failure misfire nine days' wonder wet squib

Example Sentences

Examples are provided to illustrate real-world usage of words in context. Any opinions expressed do not reflect the views of Dictionary.com.

"But you also need to have the right team around you to make sure it's not a flash in the pan and you can grow it in a sustainable way."

From BBC • Sep. 26, 2025

"Jacob wasn't a flash in the pan or just a talent - he was someone that wouldn't let you down," he said.

From BBC • Aug. 18, 2025

You can watch it and go, "Oh, you're just going home and you're just breaking up with these people. It's just a flash in the pan of your life," but it's a big moment.

From Salon • Nov. 28, 2024

Whether that will make Leverkusen perennial contenders or a one-season flash in the pan remains to be seen.

From Los Angeles Times • Apr. 16, 2024

And it came about that early morning's work of Caspar's that had surprised us so was no flash in the pan at all.

From Taking Chances by Cullen, Clarence L.