hoi polloi
[/ˌhɔɪ pəˈlɔɪ/]
noun
a massa, o povo comum, a ralé
1. the ordinary people; the general population; the masses (often used with a derogatory or dismissive connotation)
The elite often looks down upon hoi polloi with disdain.
A elite frequentemente olha para a massa com desdém.
2. the common people of low social status (from ancient Greek)
He considered himself too refined for the tastes of hoi polloi.
Ele se considerava refinado demais para os gostos do povo comum.
The phrase originated from ancient Greek (hoi polloi = 'the many') and is primarily used in English academic, literary, and upper-class contexts with a somewhat derogatory tone. In Brazilian Portuguese, the equivalent expressions ('a massa', 'o povo comum', 'a ralé') are used more neutrally in general speech or with condescension in elite circles. The term is rarely used in everyday conversation in either language and is more characteristic of formal, educated discourse.
NYC Slang
the regular folks; the everyday people; the commoners
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