Example
“Every startup is in the AI gold rush; the picks-and-shovels players win.”
Dictionary details
Related idioms
Expressions connected by reviewed component words or topic tags.
gold-plating
Informal · CEFR C1
adding unnecessary features, polish, or complexity to a product beyond what was asked for
up for grabs
Informal · CEFR B2
available for anyone to claim, take, or win
give someone a run for their money
Neutral · CEFR B1
to compete nearly as well as a much stronger opponent, forcing them to work hard for victory
miss the boat
Informal · CEFR B1
To lose a chance to do something by being too slow or late.
deep pockets
Informal · CEFR B2
having a great deal of money to spend
flash in the pan
Informal · CEFR B2
something that shows brilliant early promise but fails quickly and leaves nothing behind
Source methodology
Meanings, register, CEFR, and examples come from the reviewed dictionary record. Expression notes may describe a reviewed present-day word picture or a background note; they are not presented as verified etymology.