The only game in town
phrase
The only or best method, choice, or solution available.
With banks offering such low interest rates, stocks are the only game in town for investors wanting a decent return.

Often appears as...
- currently the only game in town
- becoming the only game in town
Usage tips
Idiomatic
phrase
The only thing of interest or importance in a place or during a particular period.
In a small city where the football team is the only game in town, everyone talks about the latest match.

Often appears as...
- the only game in town is
- it's the only game in town
Usage tips
Idiomatic
phrase
The only or best method, choice, or solution available.
With banks offering such low interest rates, stocks are the only game in town for investors wanting a decent return.

Often appears as...
- currently the only game in town
- becoming the only game in town
Usage tips
Idiomatic
phrase
The only thing of interest or importance in a place or during a particular period.
In a small city where the football team is the only game in town, everyone talks about the latest match.

Often appears as...
- the only game in town is
- it's the only game in town
Usage tips
Idiomatic
Definition 1 of 2

Exclusivity Highlight
Indicates no other options are as good or available in a specific situation or field.

When it comes to instant messaging, this app is the only game in town with such a level of encryption.
Suggests Necessity
Implies that because it's the only option, it's necessary to consider it, even if reluctantly.

If you want the latest processor, this expensive model is the only game in town.
Not Always Positive
The phrase may imply a lack of competition or choices, which isn't always a good thing.

Despite its flaws, that old software is currently the only game in town for our research.
Exclusivity Highlight
Indicates no other options are as good or available in a specific situation or field.

When it comes to instant messaging, this app is the only game in town with such a level of encryption.
Suggests Necessity
Implies that because it's the only option, it's necessary to consider it, even if reluctantly.

If you want the latest processor, this expensive model is the only game in town.
Not Always Positive
The phrase may imply a lack of competition or choices, which isn't always a good thing.

Despite its flaws, that old software is currently the only game in town for our research.
Exclusivity Highlight
Indicates no other options are as good or available in a specific situation or field.

When it comes to instant messaging, this app is the only game in town with such a level of encryption.
Suggests Necessity
Implies that because it's the only option, it's necessary to consider it, even if reluctantly.

If you want the latest processor, this expensive model is the only game in town.
Not Always Positive
The phrase may imply a lack of competition or choices, which isn't always a good thing.

Despite its flaws, that old software is currently the only game in town for our research.
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