moment in the sun: Idiom Meaning and Origin
What does ‘moment in the sun’ mean?
The idiom "moment in the sun" means a brief period of fame, success, or recognition, often followed by a decline or being overshadowed by others.
Idiom Explorer
The idiom "the sun sets on something" means that something is coming to an end or reaching its completion.
The idiom "see the light of day" means to be revealed or brought to attention after being hidden or kept secret for a period of time.
The idiom "ride the crest of the wave" means to experience great success or to be at the peak of a positive situation. It emphasizes seizing opportunities and enjoying the benefits of being in a favorable position.
The idiom "ride off into the sunset" means to have a happy or satisfying ending or departure, often in a romantic or idealized way.
The idiom "ray of light" refers to a small sign of hope or positivity in a difficult or dark situation. It symbolizes optimism and the belief that things will improve, even in challenging times.
Put on the map is an idiom that means to gain recognition or become well-known. It refers to the act of bringing something or someone into public attention, making them more notable or important.
The idiom "moment of truth" refers to a crucial or decisive moment when the true nature of something or someone is revealed or made evident.
The idiom "milestone" refers to a significant event or achievement that marks an important point or stage in a process, project, or someone's life.
The idiom "matter of time" means that something is certain to happen eventually, although it may not happen immediately or in the present moment.
Hidden Surprises
The idiom "15 minutes of fame" is closely related to the concept of a moment in the sun. It refers to a brief period of time when someone becomes famous or well-known, often as a result of some notable achievement or event. This phrase was famously coined by artist Andy Warhol, who stated that "in the future, everyone will be world-famous for 15 minutes." This idiom highlights the temporary nature of fame and its fleeting impact on an individual's life.
In a similar vein, the idiom "have one's moments" is another expression that aligns with the idea of a moment in the sun. It is used to describe someone or something that has occasional periods of excellence or brilliance. While they may not consistently maintain a high level of performance or success, they are capable of shining in certain moments. This idiom acknowledges that everyone has their own time to shine, even if it is not a continuous state of being.
Another related idiom is "in the spotlight," which refers to being the center of attention or under public scrutiny. This term is commonly used in the entertainment industry, where performers and celebrities often find themselves in the spotlight due to their fame or notoriety. Being "in the spotlight" can bring both positive and negative attention, amplifying the significance of a moment in the sun and the temporary nature of fame or recognition.
Similarly, the idiom "have a moment" is used to describe a situation or experience that is particularly enjoyable, memorable, or noteworthy. When someone "has a moment," they are experiencing something that stands out from the ordinary or mundane. This can be applied to a wide range of situations, from personal achievements to fun or exciting experiences. Like a moment in the sun, "having a moment" implies a brief period of heightened significance or enjoyment.
Lastly, the idiom "catch the sun" is another expression that relates to the idea of a moment in the sun. It is often used to describe a temporary break or respite from the difficulties or challenges of everyday life. "Catching the sun" implies finding a moment of relaxation, tranquility, or happiness amidst a busy or stressful routine. This idiom emphasizes the need to appreciate and seize small moments of joy or respite, even if they are fleeting.
Example usage
Examples of how the idiom "moment in the sun" can be used in a sentence:
- After years of hard work, she finally had her moment in the sun when she received a promotion at work.
- The local band had their moment in the sun when they were invited to perform at a popular music festival.
- He had a brief moment in the sun as a successful actor, but his career quickly faded afterward.