just folks: Idiom Meaning and Origin
What does ‘just folks’ mean?
The idiom "just folks" means being ordinary, down-to-earth, and unpretentious, with a simple and relatable demeanor.
Idiom Explorer
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The Ordinary Ones
The idiom "just folks" is widely known and understood in American English. It is often used to describe someone as down-to-earth, unpretentious, and approachable. The term suggests that the person in question does not have any airs or superiority and emphasizes their simplicity and commonness. This idiom is commonly used in casual conversations, literature, and media to refer to individuals who are considered to be ordinary or average in their behavior and attitude.
The origin of the idiom "just folks" can be traced back to the early 20th century in the United States. The word "folks" has its roots in Middle English, derived from the Germanic word "folk" meaning "people" or "nation." It entered the English language in the 12th century and has been in common usage ever since. The addition of the word "just" in front of "folks" is believed to have originated from American colloquial speech, emphasizing the idea of simplicity and modesty.
The idiom "just folks" gained popularity primarily through American literature, films, and popular culture. It has become deeply ingrained in American vernacular and reflects the cultural values of equality and egalitarianism. The idiom is often used to contrast with individuals who are perceived as having high social status or attempting to present themselves as superior.
The idiom "just folks" carries a positive connotation and is frequently used to describe individuals who are relatable and approachable. It implies a lack of pretension, arrogance, or snobbishness. For example, someone might say, "Despite his success, he remains just folks, always willing to help others." This usage emphasizes how the idiom conveys the idea of maintaining a humble and accessible demeanor, regardless of one's accomplishments or social standing.
It is worth noting that the idiom "just folks" can also be seen as reflecting the cultural ideal of the American Dream, where equality and the belief that anyone can achieve success through hard work and determination are emphasized. In this sense, the idiom carries a sense of equality and inclusivity, emphasizing the value of being able to relate to others on a common level.
Another idiom related to "just folks" is "average joe." This expression is used to refer to an ordinary person, typically a man. It is often used in a similar context to "just folks," highlighting the idea of being unremarkable, ordinary, and relatable. The term "Joe Public" is also related to "just folks" and is used to refer to the general public or the average person in a population. Both of these idioms share the same notion of simplicity, approachability, and relatability as "just folks."
The idiom "just folks" is deeply ingrained in American English and is used to describe individuals who are seen as down-to-earth, unpretentious, and approachable. It originated in the early 20th century and gained popularity through literature, films, and popular culture. The idiom reflects cultural values of equality and egalitarianism, emphasizing the importance of simplicity and relatability. Its usage conveys a positive impression of individuals who embody these qualities, highlighting their ability to connect with others on a common level. The idiom "just folks" continues to be used in everyday conversations, literature, and media, capturing the essence of ordinary, humble individuals.
Example usage
Examples of how the idiom just folks can be used in a sentence:
- When the mayor visited our small town, he made an effort to be just folks by sitting down for coffee with the locals.
- Even though he was a famous actor, he preferred to live a simple life and be just folks whenever he was not on set.
- My grandparents are very down-to-earth and always make everyone feel welcome in their home, they're truly just folks.
The idiom just folks refers to someone who is humble, unpretentious, and easy to relate to. It implies that the person has a simple and approachable demeanor, making others feel comfortable in their presence. It is often used to describe individuals who remain unaffected by their success, fame, or position, and instead choose to interact with others in a genuine and down-to-earth manner. In the examples provided, the idiom is used to emphasize how these individuals make an effort to connect with others on a personal level, despite any differences in social status or background.
More "Informal" idioms
