polloi crossword puzzle clue – All Crossword Answers
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Solutions for "polloi crossword puzzle clue" by Letter Count
6 Letters
MASSES: Refers to the common people or the general public.
9 Letters
COMMONERS: A general term for ordinary people, particularly used in historical contexts.
More About "polloi crossword puzzle clue"
The term "polloi" is most famously encountered in the Greek phrase "hoi polloi," which translates literally to "the many." It refers to the general populace, the common people, or the masses. Often, when used in English, it carries a slightly pejorative or dismissive connotation, implying a lack of sophistication or distinction.
In crosswords, clues like "polloi" test a solver's knowledge of foreign phrases and their specific meanings. Understanding the context of "hoi polloi" is key to unlocking the correct answer, which almost always relates to the concept of the general public or common folk. Its classical origin makes it a recurring favorite for puzzle constructors looking for an elegant way to clue answers like MASSES or COMMONERS.
Tips For Your Next Puzzle
- Contextual Clues: Pay close attention to the phrasing around terms like "polloi." Is it asking for a direct translation, a synonym, or a concept? For "polloi," think about the broader phrase "hoi polloi" and what it signifies.
- Foreign Language Awareness: Many crosswords incorporate terms from Latin, Greek, French, or other languages. Familiarize yourself with common foreign phrases that appear in English.
- Check Letter Count: If you have some letters filled in or a known length, use that to narrow down possibilities. For "polloi," knowing it's often a synonym for a 6-letter word like 'MASSES' or a 9-letter word like 'COMMONERS' can be very helpful.
For more advice, visit our page on general crossword strategies.
Frequently Asked Questions
What does "hoi polloi" mean in common usage?
"Hoi polloi" is a phrase from Greek that literally means "the many" or "the common people." It is often used, sometimes disparagingly, to refer to the general populace or masses.
Why is "polloi" often clued in crosswords?
The term "polloi" (especially as part of "hoi polloi") is popular in crosswords due to its distinct, somewhat uncommon usage and its specific meaning, allowing for clever clues related to the common people, the masses, or even classical references.
Are there other Greek terms commonly found in crosswords?
Yes, many Greek and Latin terms appear in crosswords. Examples include 'AGORA' (marketplace), 'DELTA' (river mouth or Greek letter), 'OMEGA' (last letter of Greek alphabet), and various prefixes and suffixes derived from Greek.