the prevailing trend

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "the prevailing trend" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used to describe the most common or dominant pattern or tendency in a particular context, such as fashion, economics, or social behavior. Example: "In recent years, the prevailing trend in technology has been towards increased automation and artificial intelligence."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Encyclopedias

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

33 human-written examples

Contrary to the prevailing trend in magazines, circulation remains strong.

Independent

The prevailing trend of our time is, it seems, a disburdening of the past.

The New Yorker

Should the orchestra, given its identity, ignore the prevailing trend toward globalization?

The New York Times - Arts

It was a big deal but just part of the prevailing trend of a heady era.

The New York Times

In the nineteen-eighties, the prevailing trend in most of the world was toward harsher treatment of even casual users.

The New Yorker

Price was a wealthy country squire, Knight his friend and neighbour; both were enthusiastic amateur landscape designers and critics of the prevailing trend.

Encyclopedia Britannica

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

26 human-written examples

Despite the results, the prevailing trends may not hold.

The New York Times

Taylor and Goddard seem to be always comparing Hot Chip to prevailing trends, and finding the prevailing trends wanting.

The Guardian - Music

By inclination and design, Timberlake is positioned apart from the prevailing trends in music, fashion, sensibility.

The New York Times

Rob Rouse, successful stand-up comedian and former geography teacher, baulks when I tell him of the prevailing trends.

Independent

Mr. Lowenstein balances his critique of rapacious mutual funds with an analysis of two relatively new funds, Wintergreen and Fairholme, that buck the prevailing trends.

The New York Times

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When discussing changes or shifts, use "the prevailing trend" to establish a baseline for comparison. This helps illustrate the extent of the shift. For example: "The new policy marks a significant departure from the prevailing trend of deregulation."

Common error

Avoid using "the prevailing trend" to describe niche phenomena. This phrase suggests a widespread pattern, so ensure your subject has broad relevance, not just a limited context.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "the prevailing trend" functions as a noun phrase, typically acting as the subject or object of a sentence. As Ludwig AI confirms, it's used to identify a widespread or dominant pattern observed in a specific context, whether it be social, economic, or cultural.

Expression frequency: Common

Frequent in

News & Media

47%

Science

26%

Encyclopedias

8%

Less common in

Wiki

5%

Formal & Business

3%

Social Media

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "the prevailing trend" is a noun phrase used to describe the most common or dominant pattern in a specific context. As Ludwig AI confirms, the phrase is grammatically correct and commonly used in writing. It is found most frequently in news and media, science, and encyclopedias, demonstrating its versatility. When using the phrase, remember to ensure the trend has broad relevance and to consider using alternative phrases like "the dominant trend" for variety. Using this phrase effectively helps establish a shared understanding of current states and directions.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

the dominant tendency

Replaces 'trend' with 'tendency', focusing on the direction something is leaning towards.

the current fashion

Substitutes 'trend' with 'fashion', implying widespread adoption or style.

the popular movement

Emphasizes broad public support or adoption.

the general direction

Focuses on the overall path or course of events.

the established norm

Highlights what is considered standard or typical.

the accepted practice

Replaces trend with the idea of a routine or method that is widely used.

the common approach

Highlights a method that many people or organizations use.

the going rate

This alternative implies a standard or accepted level or price.

the spirit of the age

Captures the overall mood or atmosphere of a particular time.

the vogue

Highlights the fashion or popularity of something at a particular time.

FAQs

How can I use "the prevailing trend" in a sentence?

Use "the prevailing trend" to describe the most common or dominant pattern or tendency in a particular context. For example, "The prevailing trend in education is toward personalized learning."

What are some alternatives to saying "the prevailing trend"?

You can use alternatives like "the dominant trend", "the current fashion", or "the popular movement" depending on the specific context.

Is it better to say "prevailing trend" or "current trend"?

"Prevailing trend" emphasizes the dominance or widespread nature of the trend, while "current trend" simply indicates it's happening now. The best choice depends on which aspect you want to highlight.

What is the difference between "trend" and "prevailing trend"?

A "trend" is a general direction in which something is developing or changing. Adding "prevailing" emphasizes that it is the most common or influential trend at the moment, distinguishing it from other, less significant trends.