Inklingo

How to Say "trend" in Spanish

English → Spanish

moda

/moh-dah//ˈmoða/

nounB1general
Use 'moda' when referring to a current popular style, fashion, or a general direction that is widely adopted, especially in consumer behavior or aesthetics.
An illustration showing several different people, young and old, all holding the exact same bright red umbrella, indicating a popular trend.

Examples

Ahora es moda viajar solo con mochila.

It is currently a trend to travel only with a backpack.

El uso de bicicletas eléctricas se ha puesto de moda en la ciudad.

The use of electric bikes has become popular/trendy in the city.

Esa canción fue una moda pasajera.

That song was a passing fad.

Verbs of Change

When talking about something becoming trendy, use reflexive verbs like 'ponerse' (se ha puesto de moda) or 'volverse' (se volvió una moda).

olas

OH-lahs/ˈo.las/

nounB1general
Use 'olas' (literally 'waves') to describe a widespread, often sudden, popular movement or surge in a particular activity or feeling, like a 'wave' of something happening.
A large, dense crowd of simplified, colorful human figures rushing forward quickly, illustrating a surge of people.

Examples

Hay una ola de calor en el sur del país.

There is a heat wave in the south of the country.

El país experimentó una ola de protestas.

The country experienced a wave of protests.

Se sintió una ola de tristeza al escuchar la noticia.

A wave of sadness was felt upon hearing the news.

Metaphorical Use

When 'olas' is used figuratively (for things that aren't water), it describes a sudden, powerful, and often temporary burst of something, like heat, emotion, or activity.

Moda vs. Olas

Learners often confuse 'moda' and 'olas' because both can describe something popular. Remember that 'moda' is more about current fashion or general direction, while 'olas' implies a more dynamic, wave-like surge or movement of people or events.

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