The phrase "the hoi polloi" is commonly used to refer to the masses or the common people. However, there are several synonyms that can be used to convey the same meaning. For instance, the term "plebeians" is often used to describe the commoners in a society. "The masses" or "the general public" are another set of phrases that convey the same meaning as "the hoi polloi". The word "proletariat" is another term that is used to describe the working-class people. Other synonyms for "the hoi polloi" include "the multitude", "the rabble", and "the commonalty". Regardless of the synonym used, all of these words refer to the majority of people in a society who do not hold positions of power or influence.