bandwagon

Everyday

1. (idiom) Something that suddenly becomes popular, which many people join just because others do: «jump on the bandwagon». tree →
2. A large cart that carried a band playing music in a parade. tree →

In the lessons

In lessons about persuasion, adverts and politics, the «bandwagon effect» is a trick: «everyone is buying it, so you should too». Thinking for yourself means not just jumping on the bandwagon. Phrases: «jump on the bandwagon», «climb on the bandwagon».

Examples

• When the toy became popular, everyone jumped on the bandwagon. tree →
• The advert used the bandwagon trick: «Everyone has one!» tree →
• Don't just join the bandwagon; decide what you think. tree →
• In old parades the band rode on a bandwagon. tree →
• Lots of fans jumped on the bandwagon once the team started winning. tree →
• The fidget spinner bandwagon didn't last long. tree →

Note

One word. Almost always used in the idiom «jump/climb on the bandwagon», which can sound a bit critical: joining for popularity, not because you believe in it.