once in a lifetime

Idioms and Phrases

Extremely rare, especially as an opportunity. For example, An offer like that will come just once in a lifetime . This phrase, often used hyperbolically, was first recorded in 1854. Also see of one's life .

Example Sentences

The current energy and industrial boom, according to Siemens President Joe Kaeser, “is a once-in-a-lifetime moment.”

From The Daily Beast

For people who love history, this is a once-in-a-lifetime, once-in-history resource.

From The Daily Beast

Not that this once-in-a-lifetime spectacle is likely to come to pass.

From The Daily Beast

Investors will view the Facebook IPO as a once-in-a-lifetime event.

From The Daily Beast

Charity auction site charitybuzz to host a star-studded line-up of once-in-a-lifetime experiences.

From The Daily Beast

Related Words

• unbelievable