What is trending topic?

A trending topic is a subject, hashtag, sound or phrase that suddenly gets a lot of attention and conversation on a social network.

Trends show what people are talking about right now. Joining a relevant trend can help your content reach more people, since networks often push popular topics. It can also make your brand look current and in touch with your audience.

X and Threads show trending topics and searches, while TikTok and Instagram trends often center on sounds, formats and challenges. Trends can vary by country and change within hours. Each network decides what counts as trending using its own systems, and some trends are tailored to each user.

Only join trends that fit your brand and audience. Act quickly, as trends fade fast. Understand the background of a trend before using it, and avoid anything tied to tragedy, politics or controversy. Add your own twist rather than copying exactly what others do.

Example

A local pizza shop joins a trending video format by showing its staff guessing pizza toppings blindfolded.