Trend For, Trend In, or Trend Of – Which Is Correct?

Have you ever wondered how to use the word "trend" correctly? With different variations like "Trend For," "Trend In," and "Trend Of" being used in various contexts, it can be confusing to know which one to use. Let's explore each form and understand when to use them.

Trend For, Trend In or Trend Of?

"Trend" refers to a general development or a change in a situation. When using the term "Trend For," we are referring to a subject. On the other hand, "Trend In" is used when the trend leans in a particular direction, and "Trend Of" is used for general trends. Although all three forms are commonly used, "Trend Of" seems to be the most popular and versatile form.

Please note that "Trend" works well with many prepositions, making it a versatile word to use. To help understand this better, let's dive into some examples before moving forward.

• The trend in blogging is to create as much content as possible.
• The trend of blogging is to create as much content as possible.

As you can see, both "Trend In" and "Trend Of" work well in these examples, with slight grammatical adjustments. The first sentence uses "Trend In" to discuss the direction of the blogging industry as a whole. The second sentence, however, replaces "Trend In" with "Trend Of," and it still conveys the same meaning effectively.

The third sentence uses "Trend For" to specify the trend for bloggers as individuals, rather than the entire industry. In the fourth sentence, "Trend For" is interchanged with "Trend Of," and it remains just as effective. Overall, "Trend Of" seems to be the most versatile in both cases.

Trend For

"Trend For" refers to a trend for a specific subject. The preposition "For" is more closely related to the subject of the sentence than the word "trend" itself. In this context, "For" carries the meaning of "in relation to" or "the trend in relation to."

Let's look at some examples to clarify the concept of "Trend For":

1. The trend for some commodities is to continue increasing in price.
2. The trend for content creators is to be as open as possible about their lives.
3. After the pandemic, the trend for the workforce became to demand better pay.
4. Since 2020, the trend for the holiday season has been to stay home with family.
5. Have you researched the trend for our company for the next three quarters?

In each of these examples, "For" indicates and emphasizes the topic of conversation, whether it's commodities, an attitude, or a specific group of people. "Trend For" makes it crystal clear that we're talking about those specific issues and not referring to them in a general sense.

Trend In

"Trend In" is used to indicate the direction in which something is inclining or going. It is not as closely connected to an individual subject as "Trend For" but provides information about a broader concept.

Here are some examples:

1. The trend in fashion is to create more non-binary items.
2. Whatever the trend in your industry is now, it will likely become the norm in the future.
3. After Covid-19, the trend in travel is to go to places where you can remain isolated.
4. Inflation is causing a trend in prices that seem to be constantly increasing.
5. A trend in education is to take as many online courses as possible.

Unlike "Trend For," which focuses on a small sample of people or things, "Trend In" helps us make generalizations. While it may not always be accurate, "Trend In" sheds light on a general group, such as an industry or a profession. It's important to note that if we consider a subgroup within this general field, the "Trend For" that subgroup might be more specific or even different. However, that's not our focus here. "Trend In" works best for generalizations and broad ideas.

Trend Of

"Trend Of" can be used to describe both general trends and specific trends related to groups or individuals. It indicates the direction toward which the subject is leaning as a collective. "Of" is frequently associated with the idea of possession, and that's precisely what "Trend Of" suggests.

Let's take a look at some examples:

1. The trend of this whole industry is to keep growing for many years.
2. We must be diligent if we want to maintain this company's trend of growth.
3. The trend of this generation is to seek more fulfilling jobs and do what makes them happy.
4. Following the trend of social media, everyone is scared of being canceled.
5. The trend of society is to become less conservative as time goes by.

Which Is Used the Most?

To understand which of the three forms - "Trend For," "Trend In," or "Trend Of" - is used more often, let's have a look at the graph from Google Ngram Viewer below:

As per the graph, "Trend For" is the least used among the three forms, likely because it should be limited to subjects that do not necessarily reflect the entire general group. "Trend Of" is currently the most used, but it has been switching places with "Trend In" over time. "Trend In" previously held the top spot and might regain it eventually. It's safe to say that both "Trend Of" and "Trend In" are widely used expressions.

Final Thoughts

The difference between "Trend For," "Trend In," and "Trend Of" is subtle, and they can sometimes be used interchangeably. Use "Trend For" when the focus is on the subject rather than the trend itself. "Trend In" should be used when there is an inclination or direction the trend is going. For general trends, "Trend Of" is the preferred choice.