moda
/ˈmoda/
The English phrase 'bandwagon' can be translated into Spanish as moda.
In a figurative sense, moda refers to a current movement that attracts wide support. To express the action of joining a bandwagon, Spanish speakers often use the idiom subirse al carro de la moda (to climb onto the fashion wagon).
Meaning: (figuratively) current movement that attracts wide support (noun)
How do you pronounce it?
/ˈmoda/
Did you know?
- In many Spanish-speaking-speaking countries, if you join a bandwagon, you are described as someone who va con la corriente, meaning you are simply 'going with the current'.
- To describe a bandwagon effect specifically in social sciences, Spanish speakers often use the term efecto arrastre, which literally translates to 'dragging effect'.
- While moda translates as 'fashion' or 'bandwagon', it shares a root with modo, which means 'way' or 'manner'. Both words descend from the Latin modus, meaning 'measure'.
Examples in context
- A Juan le gusta subirse a todas las modas pasajeras.Juan likes to jump on every bandwagon.
- Todos están siguiendo la ola de hacer ejercicio en casa durante la pandemia.Everyone is jumping on the bandwagon of working out at home during the pandemic.
- Esa es la moda del momento.That is the current trend.
- No quiero seguir la moda de todos.I don't want to follow everyone's bandwagon.
- La moda de las criptomonedas es pasajera.The cryptocurrency bandwagon is temporary.
Example conversation
Two friends are discussing a new social media app.
- Alejandro¿Vas a usar esa aplicación nueva?Are you going to use that new app?
- LucíaNo, solo es una moda pasajera.No, it's just a passing bandwagon.
- AlejandroTienes razón, Lucía.You're right, Lucía.
- LucíaPrefiero no seguir la moda de todos.I prefer not to follow everyone's bandwagon.
Sources
- Pronunciation: Wiktionary entry moda, CC BY-SA 4.0, dump of 2026-09-26.
- Word origins: Wiktionary entries moda, CC BY-SA 4.0.
