The term "the dead" is a phrase used to refer to people who have passed away. However, there are various synonyms for this phrase that can be used in different contexts. For instance, one can use the phrase "the departed" to refer to those who have passed on. Another synonym is "the deceased," which is a formal term used to refer to someone who has died. One can also use "the late" to refer to someone who has recently died. Additionally, one can use "the lifeless" to describe someone who is no longer living. Overall, there are several alternative phrases that can be used to describe someone who has passed away besides "the dead".