- Meaning
- This idiom describes achieving quick, effortless success or gaining easy entry, as if slipping in smoothly like a well-connected figure. It conveys assured success, often used in social, professional, or romantic contexts to depict seamless acceptance. The phrase carries a tone of confidence, charm, or envy, reflecting cultural values of charisma and the human tendency to admire ease. Its imagery of swift entry evokes a slick maneuver, resonating in scenarios like social scenes or deals. The idiom celebrates smooth success, making it a suave metaphor for easy wins.
- Origin
- The phrase likely originated in 1940s America, tied to actor Errol Flynn’s reputation for charm and romantic conquests, as noted in gossip columns. Its earliest recorded use appears in *Variety* (1942), for Hollywood insiders. The idiom gained traction in the 1950s, amplified by pop culture and slang, notably in *The New York Times* for socialites. Its adoption, primarily in the U.S., stems from its catchy imagery and association with Flynn’s charisma, with some use in Australia and the U.K.
- Variants
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- In like Flynn
- In like flint
- Got in like Flynn
- Examples
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- He was in like Flynn, charming his way into the exclusive club.
- In like flint, she landed the job with one interview.
- Got in like Flynn, he secured the deal effortlessly.
- In like Flynn, they breezed into the VIP event.
- She’s in like Flynn, winning over the entire team.
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