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gain traction

[/ɡeɪn ˈtrækʃən/]
verb phrase
ganhar tração
1. To become increasingly popular, accepted, or supported; to make progress or headway with an idea, movement, or initiative
The new social media platform is starting to gain traction among younger users.
A nova plataforma de mídia social está começando a ganhar tração entre usuários mais jovens.
2. To achieve grip or hold; to secure physical adhesion or mechanical grip
The tires finally gained traction on the icy road.
Os pneus finalmente ganharam tração na estrada gelada.
NYC Slang
blow up
Synonyms
gain momentumcatch ontake offbecome popularpick up steamgain ground
Antonyms
lose tractionlose momentumfade awayfail to catch onstall

Regional Variations

General Brazilian
ganhar tração
Standard usage; also 'pegar tração' in informal contexts
São Paulo
ganhar força
Common alternative emphasizing momentum and strength
Rio de Janeiro
bombar
Slang alternative meaning to gain popularity or go viral
Portugal
ganhar impulso
Preferred translation emphasizing momentum; 'ganhar tração' also used

Related Idioms & Phrases

pick up steam
get the ball rolling
go viral
take the world by storm
catch fire
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