What does “Jump on the bandwagon” mean?

"Jump on the bandwagon" means to join a popular trend or activity.

What context can I use the in?

Learn when and how to use these words with these examples!

Example

After seeing everyone wearing them, she decided to jump on the bandwagon and buy a pair of trendy sneakers.

Example

Many companies are jumping on the bandwagon and creating their own version of the popular product.

Example

He didn't really like the show, but he jumped on the bandwagon and started watching it because all his friends were talking about it

Is “Jump on the bandwagon” an expression, an idiom, or a proverb?

“Jump on the bandwagon” is a proverb. A proverb is a short saying that teaches us something important or gives us advice. Unlike an idiom, it’s easy to understand even if it uses figurative language.

How would I use “Jump on the bandwagon” effectively in context?

You can use "Jump on the Bandwagon" to describe someone joining a popular trend or activity. It implies that the person is following the crowd rather than making an independent decision. Here are three distinct situations where you can use this phrase:

1Fashion
After seeing everyone wearing them, she decided to jump on the bandwagon and buy a pair of trendy sneakers.
After seeing everyone wearing them, she decided to jump on the bandwagon and buy a pair of trendy sneakers.
2Business
Many companies are jumping on the bandwagon and creating their own version of the popular product.
Many companies are jumping on the bandwagon and creating their own version of the popular product.
3Entertainment
He didn't really like the show, but he jumped on the bandwagon and started watching it because all his friends were talking about it.
He didn't really like the show, but he jumped on the bandwagon and started watching it because all his friends were talking about it.

Similar phrases to “Jump on the bandwagon”:

Follow the herd

To do what everyone else is doing without thinking independently

Example

She followed the herd and bought the latest smartphone.

Go with the flow

To do what others are doing or agree with the majority

Example

He decided to go with the flow and join the group for dinner.

Sheep mentality

To think or act like a sheep, blindly following others

Example

They had a sheep mentality and did whatever their friends did.

Good things to know:

Where does the phrase “Jump on the bandwagon” come from?

The origin of the phrase "Jump on the Bandwagon" can be traced back to the 19th century. During political campaigns, candidates would ride on a bandwagon to attract attention and gain supporters. As the bandwagon rolled through town, people would join in to show their support. Over time, the phrase evolved to mean joining a popular trend or activity.

Is “Jump on the bandwagon” common in everyday conversation?

Yes, "Jump on the Bandwagon" is a common expression in everyday conversation. People often use it to describe joining a popular trend or activity, especially when they feel that others are doing it without much thought or consideration.

What tone does “Jump on the bandwagon” have?

"Jump on the Bandwagon" conveys a tone of conformity and following the crowd. It can be used neutrally or with a hint of criticism, depending on the context. It suggests that the person is not making an independent decision but rather joining something because it's popular.

Can “Jump on the bandwagon” be used in informal and formal settings?

Yes, "Jump on the Bandwagon" can be used in both informal and formal settings. It's a versatile expression that describes a common social phenomenon. You can use it in casual conversations with friends or colleagues, as well as in more formal situations such as presentations or written articles.

Can it be used by itself, or is it usually part of a sentence?

It's commonly used as part of a sentence to convey its full meaning. For example, 'She decided to jump on the bandwagon and try the new diet.' However, in informal conversations, people might understand the phrase even if used alone, like saying 'Time to "jump on the bandwagon"!' to imply joining a popular activity.

Synonyms & Antonyms

Synonyms

join the trend
hop on the bandwagon
follow the crowd
conform to popular opinion
embrace the fad

Antonyms

think independently
swim against the current
march to the beat of one's own drum
reject the trend
challenge the status quo