Jump on the Bandwagon
Meaning: To join an activity, trend or opinion because many other people are doing it.
To “jump on the bandwagon” means to join something because it’s popular. This phrase came from old political parades where a real bandwagon attracted attention. Candidates who wanted to be seen as popular would “jump on” too—literally and figuratively!
How to use it
It often sounds a little critical, suggesting someone joined late or only because it’s popular, not because they really believe in it. It’s common for trends, sports teams, technology and politics. You’ll also hear “get on the bandwagon,” “hop on the bandwagon” and “bandwagon fans.”
Examples
- Every company is jumping on the AI bandwagon.
- I finally jumped on the bandwagon and started watching the show.
- He only became a fan when they started winning. Total bandwagon fan.
A common mistake
Use on: jump on the bandwagon, not “jump in the bandwagon” or “jump to the bandwagon.” It’s usually not a compliment, so be careful using it about someone’s choices.
Where it comes from
In 19th-century America, a bandwagon was a wagon that carried the band in a circus or parade. The circus clown Dan Rice is often credited with bringing bandwagons into political campaigns in the 1840s. By about 1900, politicians used “get on the bandwagon” to mean joining the side that looked likely to win.
Say it out loud
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Source: The Phrase Finder