Top 40 Slang For Once In Lifetime – Meaning & Usage

“Once in a lifetime” experiences are what memories are made of, and having the right slang to describe them can make those moments even more special. From capturing the perfect sunset to meeting your favorite celebrity, our team has scoured the depths of modern language to bring you a list of the most unique and trendy phrases that encapsulate those rare, unforgettable moments. Get ready to upgrade your vocabulary and add a touch of flair to your storytelling with our compilation of “Slang For Once In Lifetime”.

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1. Once in a blue moon

This phrase is used to describe something that happens very rarely or almost never. It refers to the occurrence of a second full moon in a calendar month, which happens approximately once every two to three years.

For example, “I only see my old college friends once in a blue moon.”
A person might say, “Finding a parking spot in this area is like finding a unicorn – it only happens once in a blue moon.”
Another might comment, “I only indulge in ice cream once in a blue moon, as a special treat.”

2. Once in a lifetime

This phrase is used to describe an event or opportunity that is extremely rare and will likely not occur again in a person’s lifetime.

For instance, “Seeing the Northern Lights is a once in a lifetime experience.”
A person might say, “Winning the lottery is a once in a lifetime chance.”
Another might comment, “Meeting your favorite celebrity in person is a once in a lifetime opportunity.”

3. One-off

This term is used to describe something that happens only once or is not part of a series or regular pattern.

For example, “The concert was a one-off event, not part of the band’s tour.”
A person might say, “I made a one-off donation to the charity.”
Another might comment, “The company produced a limited edition, one-off product for collectors.”

4. Rare as hen’s teeth

This phrase is used to emphasize that something is exceptionally rare or hard to find, as hens do not have teeth.

For instance, “Finding a parking spot in this area is as rare as hen’s teeth.”
A person might say, “Opportunities like this come as rare as hen’s teeth.”
Another might comment, “Authentic vintage clothing from that era is as rare as hen’s teeth.”

5. A needle in a haystack

This phrase is used to describe something that is extremely hard to locate or discover, comparing it to finding a small needle in a large haystack.

For example, “Finding a specific book in this messy library is like looking for a needle in a haystack.”
A person might say, “Finding a reliable contractor in this city is like finding a needle in a haystack.”
Another might comment, “Locating the lost key in the park will be like finding a needle in a haystack.”

6. Rare bird

This phrase is used to describe something that is very rare or unusual. It can refer to a person, event, or object that is not commonly seen or experienced.

For example, “Seeing a shooting star is a rare bird.”
In a conversation about unique talents, someone might say, “She’s a rare bird with her ability to play multiple musical instruments.”
A traveler might describe a remote destination as a “rare bird” that few people have visited.

7. Rare gem

This term is used to describe someone or something that is exceptionally valuable, special, or unique. It is often used to refer to a person with exceptional qualities or a rare and valuable object.

For instance, “She’s a rare gem in the world of fashion design.”
In a discussion about rare and valuable gemstones, someone might say, “The Hope Diamond is a true rare gem.”
A person might compliment a friend by saying, “You’re a rare gem, always there for me when I need you.”

8. Rare find

This phrase is used to describe something that is difficult to find or come across. It implies that the object or item is unique, valuable, or of high quality.

For example, “I found this vintage record store. It’s a rare find in this city.”
In a conversation about antiques, someone might say, “That antique shop is a treasure trove of rare finds.”
A person might share their excitement by saying, “I stumbled upon a rare find at a flea market today!”

9. Rare sight

This term is used to describe something that is not commonly seen or experienced. It refers to an event, scene, or phenomenon that is uncommon and noteworthy.

For instance, “A double rainbow is a rare sight.”
In a discussion about wildlife, someone might say, “Spotting a snow leopard in the wild is a rare sight.”
A person might describe a unique occurrence by saying, “The solar eclipse was a rare sight that I’ll never forget.”

10. Rare breed

This phrase is used to describe a person or thing that is uncommon, distinctive, or one-of-a-kind. It implies that the individual or object possesses qualities that set them apart from others.

For example, “She’s a rare breed of artist with her unconventional style.”
In a conversation about dog breeds, someone might say, “The Tibetan Mastiff is a rare breed.”
A person might compliment a friend by saying, “You’re a rare breed, always thinking outside the box.”

11. Rare occurrence

A rare occurrence refers to something that happens very infrequently or seldomly. It is an event that is not commonly experienced or witnessed.

For example, “Seeing a shooting star is a rare occurrence.”
One might say, “Winning the lottery is a rare occurrence.”
In a conversation about natural phenomena, someone might mention, “Witnessing a solar eclipse is a rare occurrence.”

12. Rare opportunity

A rare opportunity refers to a chance or possibility that is not often available. It is an occasion that presents itself infrequently or is not easily come by.

For instance, “Being able to travel the world is a rare opportunity.”
A person might say, “Meeting your favorite celebrity in person is a rare opportunity.”
In a discussion about career advancements, someone might mention, “Getting promoted to a higher position is a rare opportunity.”

13. Rare specimen

A rare specimen refers to something or someone that is unique, unusual, or exceptional. It is an example that is not commonly found or seen.

For example, “The albino alligator is a rare specimen.”
One might say, “The ancient artifact is a rare specimen.”
In a conversation about wildlife, someone might mention, “The endangered species is a rare specimen.”

14. Rare treasure

A rare treasure refers to something that is highly valuable, precious, or prized. It is a gem or object that is not easily found or obtained.

For instance, “The antique jewelry is a rare treasure.”
A person might say, “The ancient manuscript is a rare treasure.”
In a discussion about art, someone might mention, “The masterpiece painting is a rare treasure.”

15. Rare event

A rare event refers to something that occurs very infrequently or seldomly. It is a happening or incident that is not commonly observed or experienced.

For example, “The total solar eclipse is a rare event.”
One might say, “The meteor shower is a rare event.”
In a conversation about historical moments, someone might mention, “The moon landing was a rare event.”

16. Rare phenomenon

This phrase refers to an event or phenomenon that is not often witnessed or experienced. It implies that the occurrence is unique or happens very rarely.

For example, “Seeing a double rainbow is a rare phenomenon.”
A person might say, “Experiencing an earthquake is a rare phenomenon in this area.”
When discussing a natural disaster, someone might mention, “The eruption of a volcano is a rare phenomenon that can have devastating effects.”

17. Rare experience

This term describes an event or experience that is not commonly encountered. It suggests that the experience is exceptional or extraordinary.

For instance, “Skydiving is a rare experience that not everyone gets to have.”
Someone might say, “Traveling to a remote island is a rare experience that allows you to disconnect from the world.”
When discussing a unique opportunity, a person might mention, “Attending a live concert by your favorite band is a rare experience.”

18. Rare moment

This phrase refers to a specific moment or instance that is not often seen or experienced. It conveys the idea that the moment is uncommon or happens very rarely.

For example, “Witnessing a shooting star is a rare moment.”
Someone might say, “Capturing a perfect sunset photograph is a rare moment for photographers.”
When discussing a special event, a person might mention, “Meeting a celebrity in person is a rare moment that you’ll never forget.”

19. Rare occasion

This term describes a specific event or occasion that does not happen frequently. It suggests that the occasion is unique or happens very rarely.

For instance, “Attending a royal wedding is a rare occasion.”
Someone might say, “Having all your family members together for a reunion is a rare occasion.”
When discussing a special celebration, a person might mention, “Celebrating a milestone birthday is a rare occasion that calls for a grand party.”

20. Rare happening

This phrase refers to an event or happening that is not commonly seen or experienced. It implies that the occurrence is uncommon or happens very rarely.

For example, “Spotting a UFO is a rare happening.”
A person might say, “Winning the lottery is a rare happening that changes lives.”
When discussing a unique occurrence, someone might mention, “Finding a hidden treasure is a rare happening that excites adventurers.”

21. Rare incident

This phrase refers to an event or happening that is not commonly encountered or experienced. It suggests that the incident is unusual or out of the ordinary.

For example, “Witnessing a shooting star is a rare incident that many people hope to see.”
In a discussion about accidents, someone might say, “Getting struck by lightning is a rare incident, but it can happen.”
A person might use this phrase to describe a unique situation, such as “Finding a four-leaf clover is a rare incident.”

22. Rare chance

This term describes a situation where there is a low probability or limited possibility of something happening. It implies that the chance is not likely to occur frequently or regularly.

For instance, “Winning the lottery is a rare chance, but someone has to win eventually.”
In a conversation about job opportunities, someone might say, “Getting hired without any experience is a rare chance.”
A person might use this phrase to express a unique opportunity, such as “Visiting a remote island is a rare chance.”

23. Rare situation

This phrase refers to a particular set of conditions or circumstances that are not commonly encountered. It suggests that the situation is unusual or atypical.

For example, “Being stranded on a deserted island is a rare situation.”
In a discussion about weather, someone might say, “Experiencing a snowstorm in a tropical country is a rare situation.”
A person might use this phrase to describe a unique circumstance, such as “Finding a hidden treasure is a rare situation.”

24. Rare case

This term describes a specific occurrence or example that is not commonly observed or encountered. It implies that the case is exceptional or uncommon.

For instance, “Surviving a plane crash is a rare case.”
In a conversation about medical conditions, someone might say, “Being born with six fingers is a rare case.”
A person might use this phrase to refer to a unique instance, such as “Winning a gold medal without any prior training is a rare case.”

25. Rare instance

This phrase refers to a particular occurrence or event that is not commonly seen or experienced. It suggests that the instance is unusual or infrequent.

For example, “Encountering a double rainbow is a rare instance.”
In a discussion about accidents, someone might say, “Surviving a fall from a skyscraper is a rare instance.”
A person might use this phrase to describe a unique occurrence, such as “Meeting a celebrity in a small town is a rare instance.”

26. Rare encounter

This phrase is used to describe a meeting or interaction that is extremely unusual and unlikely to happen again in one’s lifetime.

For example, “I had a rare encounter with a celebrity at the grocery store.”
Someone might say, “Seeing a shooting star is a rare encounter that many people never experience.”
A traveler might describe, “Witnessing the Northern Lights was a rare encounter that left me in awe.”

27. Rare discovery

This term refers to a finding or realization that is exceptionally uncommon or unusual.

For instance, “The archaeologist made a rare discovery of ancient artifacts.”
Someone might say, “Finding a four-leaf clover is a rare discovery.”
An explorer might share, “Discovering a new species in the Amazon rainforest was a rare discovery.”

28. Rare view

This phrase is used to describe a perspective or sight that is exceptionally uncommon or unique.

For example, “From the top of the mountain, we had a rare view of the entire valley.”
Someone might say, “The rare view of a double rainbow was breathtaking.”
A photographer might describe, “Capturing the rare view of a comet passing by was a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity.”

29. Rare marvel

This term refers to something that is exceptionally marvelous or awe-inspiring, but also extremely uncommon or rare.

For instance, “The rare marvel of witnessing a total solar eclipse is a breathtaking experience.”
Someone might say, “The architecture of the ancient temple is a rare marvel.”
A nature enthusiast might describe, “Exploring the hidden waterfall was a rare marvel of nature.”

30. Rare wonder

This phrase is used to describe something that evokes a sense of awe or wonder, but is also exceptionally uncommon or rare.

For example, “The rare wonder of seeing the Grand Canyon for the first time is indescribable.”
Someone might say, “The rare wonder of witnessing a meteor shower is a magical experience.”
A traveler might share, “Visiting the remote island was a rare wonder that exceeded all expectations.”

31. Rare spectacle

A “rare spectacle” refers to an unusual or extraordinary event that is not commonly seen or experienced. It often implies something remarkable or awe-inspiring.

For example, witnessing a meteor shower can be described as a rare spectacle.
A person might say, “The solar eclipse was a rare spectacle that won’t happen again for many years.”
In a discussion about natural phenomena, someone might mention, “The Northern Lights are a rare spectacle that can only be seen in certain parts of the world.”

32. Rare display

A “rare display” refers to a demonstration or showing of something that is not frequently seen or exhibited. It implies a unique or exceptional presentation.

For instance, an art exhibition featuring rare and valuable pieces can be described as a rare display.
Someone might comment, “The museum’s collection of ancient artifacts is a rare display of historical treasures.”
In a discussion about sports, a person might say, “His performance in the championship game was a rare display of skill and talent.”

33. Rare presentation

A “rare presentation” refers to an exhibition or showcasing of something that is not commonly presented or displayed. It suggests a special or exceptional demonstration.

For example, a rare presentation of a new technology might involve a live demonstration and detailed explanation.
A person might say, “The scientist’s lecture on quantum physics was a rare presentation that left the audience in awe.”
In a discussion about fashion, someone might mention, “The designer’s runway show was a rare presentation of avant-garde designs.”

34. Rare performance

A “rare performance” refers to a show or act that is not frequently performed or witnessed. It suggests a special or extraordinary display of talent or skill.

For instance, a musician’s rare performance of a lesser-known composition can be highly anticipated.
A person might comment, “The acrobat’s daring stunts were a rare performance that left the audience on the edge of their seats.”
In a discussion about theater, someone might say, “The actor’s portrayal of the character was a rare performance that will be remembered for years to come.”

35. Rare show

A “rare show” refers to an exhibition or display that is not commonly seen or presented. It implies a unique or exceptional showing.

For example, a rare show of fireworks might feature unusual colors or patterns.
Someone might comment, “The art gallery’s collection of rare paintings was a show that attracted art enthusiasts from around the world.”
In a discussion about music festivals, a person might mention, “The rare show of the band’s reunion was a highlight of the event.”

36. Rare exhibition

A “rare exhibition” refers to a display or showing of something that is not commonly seen or encountered. It suggests that the exhibition is unique or unusual.

For example, an art critic might describe a gallery showing as a “rare exhibition of avant-garde works.”
A museum curator might promote a special event by saying, “Don’t miss this rare exhibition of ancient artifacts.”
A traveler might come across a “rare exhibition” of traditional customs and rituals in a remote village.

37. Once in a lifetime experience

An “once in a lifetime experience” describes a remarkable or extraordinary event that is unlikely to happen again in a person’s lifetime. It implies that the experience is incredibly rare and special.

For instance, someone might say, “Skydiving was a once in a lifetime experience that I’ll never forget.”
A traveler might describe seeing the Northern Lights as a “once in a lifetime experience.”
Attending the Olympics or a World Cup final could be considered a “once in a lifetime experience” for many sports fans.

38. Once in a lifetime chance

A “once in a lifetime chance” refers to a unique or exceptional opportunity that is unlikely to be available again. It suggests that the chance is rare and should not be missed.

For example, someone might say, “Winning the lottery is a once in a lifetime chance.”
A job seeker might describe being offered a dream job as a “once in a lifetime chance.”
A musician might consider performing at a famous venue as a “once in a lifetime chance” to showcase their talent.

39. Once in a lifetime opportunity

An “once in a lifetime opportunity” describes an exceptional or extraordinary opening that is unlikely to occur again. It implies that the opportunity is unique and should be taken advantage of.

For instance, someone might say, “Studying abroad was a once in a lifetime opportunity to immerse myself in a different culture.”
A businessperson might describe a chance to invest in a groundbreaking startup as a “once in a lifetime opportunity.”
A traveler might consider volunteering at a remote wildlife conservation project as a “once in a lifetime opportunity” to make a difference.

40. Once in a lifetime moment

An “once in a lifetime moment” refers to an unforgettable or remarkable instant that is unlikely to happen again. It suggests that the moment is incredibly rare and significant.

For example, a person might say, “Seeing my favorite band perform live was a once in a lifetime moment.”
A parent might describe witnessing the birth of their child as a “once in a lifetime moment.”
A sports fan might consider witnessing a record-breaking performance as a “once in a lifetime moment” in their fandom.