Jump on the bandwagon
Suggest a CorrectionMeaning
To join a popular trend, movement, or opinion, often for convenience or gain rather than genuine belief, implying a lack of originality. It suggests hopping aboard something already rolling, driven by momentum rather than conviction, with a tone that can be neutral or mildly critical of opportunism.
Origin
From 19th-century American politics, where circus bandwagons-lavish parade vehicles with musicians-rolled through towns. Politicians began riding them to gain attention, and by 1850s campaign slang, 'jumping on the bandwagon' meant latching onto a winner's popularity. P. T. Barnum's circus fame amplified the image, and Theodore Roosevelt's 1899 speeches cemented it as a metaphor for following the crowd.
Variants
- On the bandwagon
- Jump the bandwagon
Usage Examples
- Everyone jumped on the bandwagon when low; carb diets got trendy.
- He jumped on the bandwagon to support the winning candidate.
- She only jumped on the bandwagon after the movie went viral.
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