From: http://www.bbc.co.uk/worldservice/learningenglish/language/2013/03/130312_todays_phrase_flash_of_inspiration.shtml
A flash of lighting is seen in Piraeus, near Athens during a rainstorm. Photo: Elina Liberta/ AP
Today's Phrase
If you have a flash of inspiration it means that you get a sudden idea that helps you create or achieve what you were hoping to do.
Examples:
John's new travel book was a huge success after the flash of inspiration he got while sitting on the bus.
The idea for my song came to me in a flash of inspiration!
Take note
The expression a flash in the pan refers to someone or something that is popular or gets noticed, but only for a short period of time.
Example:
Susan had a number one hit with her song, but after that we never heard from her again. People said she was just a flash in the pan.
Interesting fact
Lightning is a bright flash of electricity produced by a thunderstorm. Lightning kills and injures between 75 and 100 people every year - more than hurricanes or tornadoes. The highest death toll from a lightning strike was in 1971 when a passenger airline flying over the Amazon rainforest was hit by lightning, causing it to crash, killing 91 people on board.