What context can I use each word in?
Learn when and how to use these words with these examples!
trending
Example
The new dance craze is trending on TikTok. [trending: adjective]
Example
The hashtag #BlackLivesMatter is trending on Twitter. [trending: verb]
popular
Example
Pizza is a popular food choice among Americans. [popular: adjective]
Example
Taylor Swift is a popular singer-songwriter. [popular: adjective]
Example
The iPhone is a popular smartphone brand. [popular: adjective]
Good things to know
Which word is more common?
Popular is a more common word than trending in everyday language. It is a versatile word that can be used in various contexts, while trending is a more specific term that is often used in the context of social media or online discussions.
What’s the difference in the tone of formality between trending and popular?
Both trending and popular can be used in formal and informal contexts, but popular is generally considered more neutral and less informal than trending.