引领潮流

You can use it as a verb phrase. Usually, you say 'Subject + 引领潮流.' It sounds very positive and admiring. You can use it for big tech companies like Apple. You can also use it for your stylish best friend. It’s a great way to give someone a high-level compliment on their taste.

Use it when you see something innovative. It fits perfectly in a business pitch about a new product. It also works when chatting about celebrities or influencers. If you're at a fashion show, this is your go-to phrase. Even in a meeting, you might suggest your company should 引领潮流 instead of just following others.

Don't use it for things that are already old news. If everyone is already doing it, you aren't leading anymore. Avoid using it for serious, traditional rituals where 'trends' don't apply. It might sound a bit sarcastic if you use it for something silly. For example, don't use it if your friend accidentally wears two different socks—unless they are really pulling it off!

In modern China, staying ahead of the curve is a huge deal. With the rapid rise of social media apps like Douyin and Xiaohongshu, trends move at lightning speed. Being a 'trendsetter' or 引领者 carries a lot of social capital. It reflects the shift from 'Made in China' to 'Designed in China,' where innovation is the new pride.

You might also hear 走在潮流前线 (walking at the front line of trends). Another one is 潮流先锋 (trend pioneer). If you want to be more casual, you can just say someone is very 潮 (trendy). But 引领潮流 remains the most powerful and elegant way to say it.