Gain popularity

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "Gain popularity" is correct and usable in written English. You can use it when discussing how something or someone becomes more well-liked or recognized over time. An example: "The new app began to gain popularity among teenagers." Alternative expressions include "Become popular" and "Attract attention."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Wiki

Science

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

59 human-written examples

Gain popularity.

WikiHow

And started to gain popularity even more.

The Guardian

It also helps poems to gain popularity: relatable poems sell.

The Guardian

A third approach, sleeve gastrectomy, is starting to gain popularity.

The New York Times - Health

The election outcome proved that anti-establishment politicians can gain popularity by eschewing populism.

The Guardian - Opinion

"Fidesz tries to gain popularity from low social solidarity," Kovács says.

The Guardian

As Hamas then began to gain popularity, Fatah found itself competing to conduct sensational attacks.

The New York Times

But they do not know whether "e-matter" will gain popularity.

The New York Times

That helped it gain popularity in the region and an important role in the Lebanese government.

The New York Times

There is reason to think par-3 courses will gain popularity.

The New York Times

Movies based in India that gain popularity overseas are most often replete with vibrancy and color.

The New York Times

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "gain popularity" to describe a gradual increase in acceptance or usage, rather than a sudden surge.

Common error

Avoid using "gain popularity" when the subject's increased visibility is based on fleeting trends or shallow appeal, instead of genuine merit or lasting impact.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "gain popularity" primarily functions as a verb phrase. It describes the action of becoming more liked, well-known, or accepted by a wider audience. Ludwig AI's examples show it used to describe products, ideas, and people.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

56%

Wiki

11%

Science

23%

Less common in

Formal & Business

3%

Encyclopedias

0%

Social Media

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "gain popularity" is a versatile verb phrase used to describe the process of becoming more widely accepted or liked. Ludwig AI's analysis confirms its grammatical correctness and common usage across various contexts, particularly in news, media, and scientific writing. While "become popular" serves as a close alternative, "gain popularity" often implies a more gradual increase in favor. When using this phrase, be mindful of the context to accurately reflect whether the popularity is based on substance or superficial trends.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

Become popular

This alternative is a more direct and common way to express the idea of increasing in popularity.

Become well-known

This phrase highlights the process of becoming widely recognised.

Gain traction

This alternative suggests making progress and gaining support or momentum.

Grow in favor

This phrase indicates an increase in positive regard or liking.

Widen appeal

This indicates broadening the range of people who find something attractive or desirable.

Rise in prominence

This alternative emphasizes an increase in importance or fame.

Attract attention

This alternative focuses on capturing notice rather than necessarily gaining favor.

Achieve recognition

This phrase focuses on attaining acknowledgment or awareness.

Acquire followers

This suggests gaining a base of supporters or admirers.

Increase in prevalence

This refers to an increase in how commonly something occurs or exists.

FAQs

What's the difference between "gain popularity" and "become popular"?

"Gain popularity" suggests a gradual process of increasing favor or recognition, while "become popular" can imply a more sudden or immediate shift in status.

What can I say instead of "gain popularity"?

You can use alternatives like "become well-known", "attract attention", or "gain traction" depending on the specific context.

How is "gain popularity" used in a sentence?

You can use "gain popularity" to describe how a product, idea, or person becomes more widely liked or recognized: "The new social media platform began to "gain popularity" among younger users."

Is it correct to say "gaining popularity"?

Yes, "gaining popularity" is the present participle form and is perfectly correct, often used to describe an ongoing process: "The concept of remote work is "gaining popularity" due to its flexibility."