expression
trend of the times; way things are going
A set phrase referring to the general direction or movement of society, culture, or history over time. Often used when discussing inevitable changes or adapting to new eras.
時代の流れに逆らうのは難しい。
It's hard to go against the trend of the times.
この技術は時代の流れとともに消えていった。
This technology disappeared with the changing times.
Refers to short-term fads or fashion trends, whereas 時代の流れ implies broader, longer-term shifts.
A compound of 時代 (era, times) + の (possessive particle) + 流れ (flow, current). The phrase metaphorically likens the progression of an era to a flowing stream.