the-flavor-of-the-month
/ðə ˌfleɪ.vər əv ðə ˈmʌnθ/ IELTSAcademic
idiom
Something popular for a short time, then quickly forgotten or replaced. It often suggests the thing is fashionable, but not lasting.
- That app is just the flavor of the month.
- He avoids flavor-of-the-month trends.
- The campaign felt like flavor of the month.
Adinary Nuance
The flavor of the month is not the same as simply “popular.” It usually suggests brief hype, with an idea that the excitement will fade soon. Compared with “trend,” it sounds more skeptical. Compared with “fad,” it is often used in business, media, or social talk about people, ideas, or products.
In other languages
- Vietnamese
- mốt nhất thời
- Spanish
- moda pasajera
- Chinese
- 昙花一现
- Japanese
- 一時の流行
- Korean
- 일시적 유행
Etymology
This phrase comes from American English, probably from the 20th century. It uses “flavor” in the sense of a popular style or taste that changes quickly.
Common phrases
the flavor of the montha flavor-of-the-month ideaflavor-of-the-month trendflavor-of-the-month product
Synonyms
Related words
Frequently asked questions
- Is “the flavor of the month” formal or informal?
- It is informal. People use it in conversation, journalism, and critical writing.
- What is the difference between “trend” and “the flavor of the month”?
- “Trend” can last longer and may be neutral. “The flavor of the month” suggests short-lived popularity.
- Can I use it for people as well as things?
- Yes. You can use it for people, products, ideas, or companies.
- Is it positive or negative?
- Usually negative or mildly negative. It often means the popularity will not last.