Folks: meaning, definitions and examples
๐จโ๐ฉโ๐งโ๐ฆ
folks
[fษสks ]
Definitions
group of people
Folks refer to a group of people, often used in a casual or informal way. It can be used to describe a community, family, or just a group of individuals.
Synonyms
community, individuals, people.
Which Synonym Should You Choose?
| Word | Description / Examples |
|---|---|
| folks |
Informal setting used to talk about groups of people, often friends or family. It provides a relaxed, friendly tone.
|
| people |
A general term used to refer to human beings collectively. It is versatile and can be used in both formal and informal settings.
|
| individuals |
Formal term used to emphasize separate or distinct persons, typically in contexts where personal identity and uniqueness are highlighted.
|
| community |
Refers to a group of people living in the same place or having a particular characteristic in common. It's often used in social, civic, or organizational contexts.
|
Examples of usage
- The folks in this neighborhood are very friendly.
- I'm going to visit my folks this weekend.
parents
In some regions, folks can also refer specifically to one's parents. It is a more old-fashioned or colloquial way of saying 'parents'.
Synonyms
mom and dad, mother and father, parents.
Which Synonym Should You Choose?
| Word | Description / Examples |
|---|---|
| folks |
Informal way to refer to a group of people or one's parents. Commonly used in casual conversations among friends or peers.
|
| parents |
Neutral term to refer to one's mother and father. It can be used in both formal and informal contexts, making it a versatile choice.
|
| mom and dad |
Informal and affectionate way to refer to one's parents. Generally used in everyday conversation within the family or with close friends.
|
| mother and father |
More formal way to refer to one's parents. Suitable for official documents, formal introductions, or when showing respect in speech.
|
Examples of usage
- I'm going to have dinner with my folks tonight.
- Her folks are coming to visit us next month.
ordinary people
Folks can also be used to refer to ordinary people in a down-to-earth or friendly manner. It is often used in a positive or relatable context.
Synonyms
common folks, ordinary people, regular folks.
Which Synonym Should You Choose?
| Word | Description / Examples |
|---|---|
| folks |
Informal term for people in general, can refer to friends, family, or a group of people collectively.
|
| ordinary people |
Refers to typical or average people. Neutral in tone and often used in contrast to someone extraordinary or of high status.
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| common folks |
Used to refer to average people, often contrasting with the wealthy or elite. Can have a neutral or slightly patronizing tone.
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| regular folks |
Informal term for average or typical people, similar to 'ordinary people', often used positively to emphasize relatability and down-to-earth qualities.
|
Examples of usage
- We need to listen to what the folks in the community have to say.
- Folks around here are hardworking and kind.
Interesting Facts
Etymology
- The word comes from Old English 'folc,' which means 'a people or a group of individuals.'
- It originally referred to a group of people sharing the same culture or ethnicity.
- In Middle English, it evolved to encompass all sorts of groups, especially familial ones.
Cultural Significance
- 'Folks' is often used in American English to refer to family, adding a sense of warmth and familiarity.
- In certain regions, saying 'folks' can indicate a traditional way of speaking, connecting to rural or Southern roots.
- Folksy music often celebrates common life experiences, resonating with everyday people.
Psychology
- Using 'folks' can foster a sense of community and belonging, making conversations feel more inclusive.
- Research shows that warm, familiar language like 'folks' can enhance social bonding and trust.
- People who use inclusive terms tend to be viewed as more approachable and friendly.
Literature
- In many folk tales, the term 'folks' is used to create a connection between the narrator and the audience.
- Classic children's literature often uses the word 'folks' to make stories feel relatable and accessible.
- Folklore often features the lives and challenges of 'folks' in a way that preserves culture and traditions.
Pop Culture
- Folks is often used in films and TV shows to denote a friendly or informal atmosphere among characters.
- Musicians use the term in song lyrics to refer to relatable, everyday life experiences.
- The term has been popularized in various media, from classic sitcoms to contemporary podcasts.
Translations
Translations of the word "folks" in other languages:
๐ต๐น pessoas
- pessoal
- amigos
๐ฎ๐ณ เคฒเฅเค
๐ฉ๐ช Leute
๐ฎ๐ฉ orang-orang
๐บ๐ฆ ะปัะดะธ
๐ต๐ฑ ludzie
๐ฏ๐ต ไบบใ (ใฒใจใณใจ)
๐ซ๐ท gens
๐ช๐ธ gente
๐น๐ท insanlar
๐ฐ๐ท ์ฌ๋๋ค (saramdeul)
๐ธ๐ฆ ูุงุณ
๐จ๐ฟ lidรฉ
๐ธ๐ฐ ฤพudia
๐จ๐ณ ไบบไปฌ (rรฉnmen)
๐ธ๐ฎ ljudje
๐ฎ๐ธ fรณlk
๐ฐ๐ฟ ะฐะดะฐะผะดะฐั
๐ฌ๐ช แฎแแแฎแ
๐ฆ๐ฟ insanlar
๐ฒ๐ฝ gente