the only game in town


the only game in town

The only thing of its kind available in a particular place or industry. The phrase is used to refer to something, such as a business, that has no competitors or for which there is no alternative. Farming is the only game in town in a rural place like this. For years, that diner was the only game in town, but now a chain restaurant is opening.See also: game, town

only game in town, the

The only choice, which one must accept for want of a better one. For example, Out here, this bank is the only game in town when it comes to financial services. This term, dating from the early 1900s, originally alluded to a gambler looking for a game in a strange town. See also: game

the only game in town

If someone or something is the only game in town, they are the best or most important of their kind, or the only one worth considering. These awards get the most publicity, but they are not the only game in town. The plan may have its weaknesses, but it is the only game in town that may lead to lasting peace. Note: This expression may refer to someone being prepared to take part in a game of poker, even if it was dishonest, because it was the only one going on at the time. See also: game, town

the only game in town

the best or most important of its kind; the only thing worth concerning yourself with. informal 1998 Spectator But there is…a sense of resentment that the big set-piece political interviews are not now the only game in town. See also: game, town

the only game in ˈtown

(informal) the most important thing of a particular type, or the only thing that is available: When it comes to selling technology, our company is the only game in town.It may not be great, but right now it’s the only game in town.See also: game, town

the only game in town

Informal The only one of its kind available: "He's the only game in town for the press to write about" (Leonard Garment).See also: game, town