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UKflash in the pan
/flˈaʃ ɪnðə pˈan/
/flˈæʃ ɪnðə pˈæn/flash in the pan
[PHRASE]
What is the origin of the idiom "fish in the pan" and when to use it?
The phrase "flash in the pan" originated from a type of gun, called a flintlock, in the 17th century. The gun had a small compartment that held a material that would ignite and create a flash of light when the gun was fired. However, sometimes this material would not ignite the main charge of the gun, resulting in no shot being fired. The metaphor of the flash of light without any real action can be applied to many situations where something looks impressive or successful but ultimately fails to achieve anything meaningful or lasting.
2
someone who experiences temporary success or achievement but ultimately fails to maintain it in the long term
Examples
1. The new tech startup seemed like a sure thing, but it turned out to be a flash in the pan.
2. The politician's campaign was the flash in the pan that taught them the importance of building a strong base of support over time.
3. For several years, while Netflix gained in valuation, the party line among traditional media executives was, 'this is a flash in the pan.
4. Or is it just a flash in the pan?
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