hoi polloi

USAGE SUMMARY

'hoi polloi' is correct and usable in written English.
It is a term used to refer to the common people or the masses. For example, "The hoi polloi gathered to protest the oppressive government."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

Ditto keeping the hoi polloi out.

The New York Times

But soon hoi polloi began crowding in.

The New York Times

hoi polloi — Greek for "the plebs".

The Guardian - Lifestyle

It keeps out the hoi polloi.

The Guardian - Lifestyle

Let hoi polloi snap away on their iPhones.

The New York Times

Gnostics looked down on the hoi polloi Christian masses".

The New York Times

Similar bands now appearing on heads of hoi polloi.

The New Yorker

As a member of the uneducated, unwashed hoi polloi, I see no evidence of efficacy.

Massachusetts Institute of Technology

His friends will remember his brilliant wit, divers talents, colossal erudition, and love of hoi polloi.

The New York Times

It would be exclusive, not for the hoi polloi, with overnight stays at some point.

Independent

Tracht is now worn by the rich, the famous, and hoi polloi alike.

The Economist

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Consider the audience and context. While "hoi polloi" can add a touch of sophistication, it might be misunderstood or perceived as pretentious in more informal settings.

Common error

Avoid using "hoi polloi" without understanding its potential to sound elitist or condescending. Always consider the tone and audience when choosing this phrase.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "hoi polloi" functions as a noun phrase, typically used to refer to the common people or the masses. Ludwig AI confirms its grammatical correctness. It often appears in contexts where a distinction is being drawn between the general populace and an elite group.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

88%

Science

6%

Formal & Business

3%

Less common in

Academia

1%

Encyclopedias

1%

Wiki

1%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The phrase "hoi polloi" is a noun phrase of Greek origin, meaning "the many", which refers to the common people or the masses. Ludwig AI confirms that its usage is grammatically correct. While frequently used, particularly in news and media contexts, it's important to be aware of its potential to sound elitist or condescending. Alternatives like "the masses" or "the common people" may be more appropriate in certain situations. Remember to consider the audience and tone when using "hoi polloi" to ensure effective and respectful communication.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

the masses

A direct synonym, often used in a neutral or slightly negative way.

the common people

A straightforward and neutral alternative.

the general public

Focuses on the public nature of the group, often in relation to services or information.

the plebeians

A historical term referring to the common citizens of ancient Rome, similar in tone to "hoi polloi".

the rank and file

Emphasizes the ordinary members of an organization or group.

the lower classes

Highlights the socio-economic status of the group.

the working class

Specifically refers to people employed in manual or industrial labor.

the man in the street

Focuses on the ordinary person's perspective or opinion.

the proletariat

A Marxist term for the working class, often used in discussions of social and economic inequality.

the average Joe

An informal term for an ordinary person.

FAQs

How can I use "hoi polloi" in a sentence?

"Hoi polloi" is typically used as a noun to refer to the common people or the masses, often in contrast to an elite group. For example, "The exclusive event was not open to the "hoi polloi"."

What is a less formal alternative to "hoi polloi"?

If you're looking for a less formal alternative, consider using phrases like "the masses", "the common people", or "the general public".

Is it acceptable to use "the hoi polloi"?

While grammatically redundant since "hoi" already means "the", using "the hoi polloi" is a common, though arguably incorrect, usage. Many native speakers use it this way.

What is the origin of the phrase "hoi polloi"?

"Hoi polloi" comes from Greek, meaning "the many". It was originally used without negative connotations but has since acquired a slightly condescending or elitist tone in English.