Common folk: meaning, definitions and examples

Best used to describe people in a poetic or old-fashioned context. Often seen in narratives or stories focusing on traditional or historical settings.

• In the tales of old, it was the common folk who faced the greatest hardships.
• The festival was a joyous occasion for the common folk of the village.

Typically used in historical or formal contexts to distinguish regular people from nobility or royalty. Can also carry a slightly negative connotation if used to imply a lack of status or importance.

• The king had little interest in the problems of the commoners.
• In medieval times, commoners had no say in governance.

Best used when discussing socioeconomic status, typically to describe people engaged in manual labor or low-wage jobs. Carries a neutral to slightly positive connotation, acknowledging the hard work of these individuals.

• The factory employed many people from the local working class community.
• Policies need to address the needs of the working class.

A neutral and modern term used to describe average, regular individuals. Suitable for casual conversation and contemporary contexts.

• The new policy affects everyday people more than any other group.
• She designs clothes for everyday people rather than celebrities.