A dog and pony show

usgb
noun

A display or event that is overexcited to attract attention, but lacks substance or importance.

The press conference was just a dog and pony show to distract from the company's sinking stock prices.
Visual representation of "a dog and pony show" - A display or event that is overexcited to attract attention, but lacks substance or importance

Often appears as...

  • put on a dog and pony show
  • stage a dog and pony show

Usage tips

Informal, Disapproving

Colloquial

Definition 1 of 2
Visual representation of "a dog and pony show"
LampPro Tip 1/3

Skepticism Warranted

Use this phrase to convey doubt about the true value or intention of something flashy or dramatic.

Illustration for Skepticism Warranted
The elaborate presentation was just a dog and pony show hiding their lack of real results.
LampPro Tip 2/3

Critically Dismissive

The phrase often implies you think the event is intentionally deceptive or distracting.

Illustration for Critically Dismissive
That political rally was a total dog and pony show—no real issues were addressed.
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Negative Connotation

It usually has a negative connotation; don't use it when you mean to compliment.

Illustration for Negative Connotation
The startup's pitch felt like a dog and pony show, all hype and no substance.
Visual representation of the word "A dog and pony show"

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