What does “Passing Fancy” mean?
"Passing Fancy" means a temporary or fleeting interest or attraction.
What context can I use the in?
Example
He had a passing fancy for playing the guitar, but quickly lost interest.
Example
Her passing fancy for fashion lasted only a few weeks.
Example
I had a passing fancy for photography, but never pursued it further
Is “Passing Fancy” an expression, an idiom, or a proverb?
“Passing Fancy” is a proverb. A proverb is a short saying that teaches us something important or gives us advice. Unlike an idiom, it’s easy to understand even if it uses figurative language.
How would I use “Passing Fancy” effectively in context?
You can use "Passing Fancy" to describe a temporary or fleeting interest or attraction. It implies that the interest or attraction is not long-lasting and may quickly fade away. For example, if someone mentions a hobby they used to have, you might say, 'Oh, that was just a passing fancy for me.'
- 1Hobbies
He had a passing fancy for playing the guitar, but quickly lost interest.
- 2Fashion
Her passing fancy for fashion lasted only a few weeks.
- 3Interests
I had a passing fancy for photography, but never pursued it further.
Similar phrases to “Passing Fancy”:
A sudden or impulsive decision or desire
Example
She bought the dress on a whim, but later regretted it.
Good things to know:
Where does the phrase “Passing Fancy” come from?
The origin of the phrase "Passing Fancy" is unknown.
Is “Passing Fancy” common in everyday conversation?
Yes, "Passing Fancy" is a commonly used expression in everyday conversation. People often use it to describe temporary interests or attractions that don't last long.
What tone does “Passing Fancy” have?
"Passing Fancy" conveys a tone of transience and impermanence. It suggests that the interest or attraction being described is not significant or enduring.
Can “Passing Fancy” be used in informal and formal settings?
Yes, "Passing Fancy" can be used in both informal and formal settings. It's a versatile expression that describes temporary interests or attractions. You can use it in casual conversations with friends and family, as well as in more formal situations such as presentations, meetings, or professional correspondence.
Can it be used by itself, or is it usually part of a sentence?
It's commonly used as part of a sentence to convey its full meaning. For example, 'He had a passing fancy for painting, but quickly moved on to other hobbies.' However, in informal conversations, people might understand the phrase even if used alone, like saying 'It was just a "passing fancy".' to imply that something was temporary.
Synonyms & Antonyms
Synonyms
- temporary attraction
- brief infatuation
- short-lived fascination
- passing interest
- transient liking
Antonyms
- long-term passion
- enduring love
- lasting devotion
- permanent interest
- steadfast attraction
