Definition of "flash in the pan" []

• A transient occurrence with no long-term effect. (noun)
• A career notable for early success not followed by significant accomplishment. (noun)

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• "As for your remaining free, that's all very well to think during the interregnum, but a man without a true love is a ship without ballast, a one-tined fork, half a pair of scissors, an utter flash in the pan ...."