MAINSTREAM meaning and definition
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What Does "Mainstream" Mean?
In today's society, the term "mainstream" is often tossed around to describe everything from music and movies to politics and culture. But have you ever stopped to think about what this phrase really means?
The term "mainstream" refers to the dominant or most widely accepted ideas, trends, or cultural practices in a particular society or community. In essence, it's what's considered "normal" or "typical" by the majority of people.
In the context of media and entertainment, mainstream often implies a broad appeal that transcends specific niches or demographics. For example, a hit song that becomes a chart-topper and is played on multiple radio stations is said to have gone "mainstream." This means it's not just popular among a particular group, like teenagers or seniors, but has broad appeal across age groups, genders, and cultures.
In politics, the term mainstream often refers to the dominant political ideologies or parties that hold sway with most voters. For instance, in the United States, the Democratic and Republican parties are considered the mainstream political options.
Beyond these examples, the concept of mainstream can also be applied to broader cultural trends. For example, social media platforms like Facebook and Instagram have become mainstream, as they've become an integral part of daily life for many people worldwide. Similarly, veganism and plant-based diets have gained popularity and gone mainstream in recent years, with more people adopting these lifestyle choices.
So, what are the characteristics that define something as "mainstream"? Typically, they include:
- Widespread appeal: Mainstream things tend to resonate with a broad audience, not just a specific niche or demographic.
- Cultural relevance: Mainstream ideas, trends, and practices often reflect the values, attitudes, and concerns of the majority of people in a given society.
- Mainstream media coverage: Items that receive extensive coverage on major news outlets, such as CNN, BBC, or The New York Times, are likely to be considered mainstream.
In conclusion, "mainstream" is a term that describes what's widely accepted and popular among the majority of people in a particular society or community. Whether it's music, movies, politics, culture, or technology, understanding the concept of mainstream can provide valuable insights into what's shaping our world today.
References:
- Oxford English Dictionary
- Merriam-Webster Dictionary
- The Guardian
- CNN