Word
fad
US/ˈfæd/
UK/fˈæd/
Countable noun
Definition
n. something that is very popular for a short time and then quickly forgotten. It is often a style, activity, or interest that people follow with great excitement.
n. an intense and widely shared enthusiasm for something, especially one that is short-lived and without basis in the object's intrinsic value.
Examples
“That new dance style is just a passing fad.”
“Many people thought that social media would be a temporary fad, but it has completely changed how we communicate.”
“The history of fashion is littered with fads that seemed essential at the time but now appear bizarre or even comical to modern observers.”
Examples
simple
“That new dance style is just a passing fad.”
contextual
“Many people thought that social media would be a temporary fad, but it has completely changed how we communicate.”
complex
“The history of fashion is littered with fads that seemed essential at the time but now appear bizarre or even comical to modern observers.”
Usage
Often modified by adjectives like 'passing', 'latest', or 'short-lived'.
Real-World Examples
“Or perhaps this is a fad, and the music industry will soon move on to something new.” “Within weeks, the fad for Eastwooding — talking to an empty chair — had already petered out.” “This results in ideas and products which become fads, fashions and popular movements of various kinds.” - Exam level
- CambridgeCambridgeCambridge English QualificationsThe exam suite from Cambridge University Press & Assessment, from A1 Movers up to C2 Proficiency. The benchmark names double as CEFR labels.B2 FirstIELTSIELTSInternational English Language Testing SystemThe 0–9 band test co-owned by the British Council, IDP, and Cambridge. Used for university entry, work, and migration.5.5–6.5TOEFL iBTTOEFL iBTTest of English as a Foreign Language, Internet-Based TestETS's academic English test, the standard route for US university admissions. Scored 0–120, with a 1–6 scale since 2026.1–6 scale: 4.0–4.572–94TOEICTOEICTest of English for International CommunicationETS's workplace English test, big in Japan and Korea. Listening & Reading scores 10–990 and tops out at C1.785–944
- Frequency
- Frequent
- Level
- B2 · Upper Intermediate
- Updated
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