writer

be a [athlete/star/writer etc.] in the making

if someone is an athlete, star, writer, etc. in the making, they are likely to develop into that thing. This young swimmer is an athlete in the making.

See also: making, star

be half the [dancer/writer etc.] you used to be

if you are half the dancer, writer etc. you used to be, you are much less good at doing something than you used to be. She's half the tennis-player she used to be.

See also: half, used