mainstream
MAYN-streem
/ˈmeɪnstriːm/
The ideas, attitudes, or activities that are regarded as normal or conventional; the dominant trend in opinion, fashion, or thought.
It often implies widespread acceptance and popularity, contrasting with 'niche' or 'alternative' elements.
The story behind the word. The word 'mainstream' is a compound of 'main' and 'stream.' 'Main' here refers to the principal or chief part, much like the 'main' road. 'Stream' refers to a current of water. So, literally, it means the principal current of a river. This imagery was then extended metaphorically to describe the dominant current of thought, opinion, or culture, becoming common in the mid-20th century.
Word relationships
- conventional: Emphasizes adherence to established norms and traditions.
- popular: Focuses on being liked or admired by many people.
- niche: Refers to a specialized segment of the market or audience.
- alternative: Suggests a departure from conventional or traditional options.
Commonly confused with
- ubiquitous: 'Mainstream' refers to what is widely accepted or popular; 'ubiquitous' refers to what is found everywhere.
Word family
- mainstreamer (noun): A person who adheres to mainstream ideas.
- mainstreaming (verb (gerund)): The process of bringing something into the mainstream.
Collocations
- mainstream media
- mainstream culture
- mainstream appeal
- enter the mainstream
- outside the mainstream
Idioms & expressions
- go mainstream
Example sentences
- "After years of playing in small clubs, the band finally broke into the mainstream with their hit single." Discussing a band's commercial success.
- "His political views were considered too radical to be part of the mainstream debate." Referring to widely accepted political views.
Memory hook
Think of a 'MAIN STREAM' in a river where most of the water flows, representing the most common ideas. Dominant Current
When not to use
Don't use it to describe something truly unique or avant-garde, as it implies conformity.
Fun facts
- The term gained significant popularity in the 20th century, particularly with the rise of mass media.
- It is often used in discussions about music, film, art, and politics to distinguish between popular and niche content.
- The concept of 'mainstreaming' is also used in education to describe integrating students with special needs into regular classrooms.
Explore more words
offbeat, unconventional, norm, norms, avant-garde, eccentric
Take your vocabulary further with LangBlitz
Our English vocabulary app: FSRS spaced repetition, 5,000+ curated words across 119 topic groups, CEFR A1 to C2. Explore your mastery with the beautiful Vocabulary World feature.