What does “Great unwashed” mean?
"Great unwashed" means the common people or the masses.
What context can I use the in?
Learn when and how to use these words with these examples!
Example
The politician claimed to be a champion of the great unwashed.
The politician claimed to be a champion of the great unwashed.
Example
The great unwashed protested in the streets against the new policies.
The great unwashed protested in the streets against the new policies.
Example
The elite looked down upon the concerns of the great unwashed
The elite looked down upon the concerns of the great unwashed
Is “Great unwashed” an expression, an idiom, or a proverb?
“Great unwashed” is a proverb. A proverb is a short saying that teaches us something important or gives us advice. Unlike an idiom, it’s easy to understand even if it uses figurative language.
How would I use “Great unwashed” effectively in context?
You can use "Great Unwashed" to refer to the general population or the masses, often in a slightly derogatory or condescending manner. For example, if someone claims to be a champion of the people but doesn't truly understand their needs, you might say, 'The politician claimed to be a champion of the great unwashed.'
- 1Politics
The politician claimed to be a champion of the great unwashed.
The politician claimed to be a champion of the great unwashed.
- 2Protest
The great unwashed protested in the streets against the new policies.
The great unwashed protested in the streets against the new policies.
- 3Social Class
The elite looked down upon the concerns of the great unwashed.
The elite looked down upon the concerns of the great unwashed.
Similar phrases to “Great unwashed”:
Masses
Refers to the general population or the majority of people
Example
The decision was met with outrage from the masses.
The decision was met with outrage from the masses.
Refers to an ordinary or typical person
Example
The story resonates with the struggles of the everyman.
The story resonates with the struggles of the everyman.
Good things to know:
Where does the phrase “Great unwashed” come from?
The origin of the phrase "Great Unwashed" is unknown. It is believed to have originated in the 19th century and was used to refer to the lower classes or the common people who were perceived as uneducated or uncultured.
Is “Great unwashed” common in everyday conversation?
The phrase "Great Unwashed" is not very common in everyday conversation. It is more commonly found in literature, historical contexts, or when discussing social class distinctions.
What tone does “Great unwashed” have?
"Great Unwashed" conveys a tone of superiority or disdain towards the common people. It is often used to highlight the divide between the upper classes and the working class or to criticize the ignorance or lack of sophistication of the masses.
Can “Great unwashed” be used in informal and formal settings?
The phrase "Great Unwashed" is relatively formal and may not be commonly used in casual conversations. It is more likely to be encountered in academic or literary contexts, or when discussing social or political issues.
Can it be used by itself, or is it usually part of a sentence?
The phrase "Great Unwashed" is typically used as part of a sentence to convey its full meaning. For example, 'The politician claimed to be a champion of the great unwashed.' However, in informal conversations, people might understand the phrase even if used alone, like saying 'The concerns of the "great unwashed" are often ignored.'
Synonyms & Antonyms
Synonyms
- working class
- lower class
- ordinary people
- the populace
- the hoi polloi
Antonyms
- elite
- privileged
- upper class
- the aristocracy
- the gentry
