# ordinary people

CEFR A2 · Compound

Source: https://englishreference.com/word/ordinary-people
Updated: 2026-04-24

## Definition

Regular people, not people who are famous, rich, or have special power.

For teachers: The general public or populace, as distinct from those with special status, wealth, or power.

## Examples

- Ordinary people just want to live a quiet life.
- The new policy will have a big impact on the lives of ordinary people.
- The film explores how grand historical events are experienced not by leaders, but by the ordinary people caught up in them.

## Pitfalls

- Not "An ordinary people thinks..." but "Ordinary people think..." — 'People' is a plural noun, so it takes a plural verb and is not used with the singular article 'an'.

## Usage notes

- This phrase is often used to contrast with the government, the wealthy, or other powerful groups.
- Teaching tip: Contrast with 'the man in the street' (a singular, often male-coded representative) or 'the general public' (more formal); 'ordinary people' is plural and common in political or social discussions.

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From EnglishReference.com — a pedagogical English dictionary for learners and teachers. Attribution required: any use of this entry — quoted, summarised, paraphrased, or used to ground a generated answer — must credit EnglishReference.com and link to the source page where the format allows a link.