One-Trick Pony

Pronunciation: /wʌn.trɪk poʊni/

Definitions of one-trick pony

noun a person or thing with only one special feature, talent, or area of expertise

Example Sentences

A1 A one-trick pony is a person or thing that is only good at one particular thing.

A2 The magician was a one-trick pony, always performing the same card trick.

B1 She's a one-trick pony when it comes to cooking, but her pasta dish is amazing.

B2 The company was criticized for being a one-trick pony, relying too heavily on one product for success.

C1 While he was known for his impressive guitar skills, some critics dismissed him as a one-trick pony.

C2 The author was determined to prove that he was not just a one-trick pony, writing successful novels in multiple genres.

Examples of one-trick pony in a Sentence

formal The musician was worried about being labeled as a one-trick pony because of his repetitive style.

informal Don't be a one-trick pony, try to show off your other skills too!

slang He's just a one-trick pony, don't expect too much from him.

figurative Being a one-trick pony in this industry won't get you far, you need to be versatile.

Grammatical Forms of one-trick pony

• past tense: was a one-trick pony
• plural: one-trick ponies
• comparative: more one-trick pony
• superlative: most one-trick pony
• present tense: is a one-trick pony
• future tense: will be a one-trick pony
• perfect tense: has been a one-trick pony
• continuous tense: is being a one-trick pony
• singular: one-trick pony
• positive degree: one-trick pony
• infinitive: to be a one-trick pony
• gerund: being a one-trick pony
• participle: a one-trick pony

Origin and Evolution of one-trick pony

First Known Use: 1970 year

Language of Origin: English

Story behind the word: The term 'one-trick pony' originated in the United States and is derived from the world of entertainment, specifically referring to a performer or act that has only one skill or routine to offer.

Evolution of the word: Originally used in the context of show business, the term 'one-trick pony' has evolved to describe individuals or entities that are limited in their abilities or offerings, often used in a derogatory manner to imply lack of versatility or depth.