B1noun2K

Folk

UK /["/fəʊk/"]/US /["/fəʊk/"]/

Definition

people in general

In simple words: People in a community or culture.

Examples

  • The folk music festival attracted a large crowd of enthusiastic fans.
  • Folk tales often carry moral lessons that have been passed down through generations.
  • Many folk artists use traditional techniques to create their crafts.
  • The folk in the village were known for their warm hospitality.
  • He enjoys telling folk stories that reflect the culture of his hometown.

Usage notes

Use 'folk' when referring to a group of people, often in a cultural or traditional context. Avoid in formal writing.

Grammar pattern

standalone noun

Memory hint

Think of 'folk' like 'folk music'—traditional tunes from a community.

Collocations

  • decent
  • fine
  • good
  • somebody’s folks
  • the folks back home
  • decent
  • fine
  • good
  • somebody’s folks
  • the folks back home
  • decent
  • fine
  • good
  • somebody’s folks
  • the folks back home

Synonyms

  • people
  • community
  • group
  • population
  • public

Antonyms

  • elite
  • individual

Common mistakes

  • 'Folk' is often confused with 'folks', which is more casual.
  • Learners sometimes use 'folk' incorrectly as a verb.
  • Confusion between 'folk' and 'people' regarding formality.