What does watch your p’s and q’s mean?

Pronunciation

/wɒtʃ ˌjuː ər ˈpiːz ənd ˈkjuːz ˈmiːn/ 🔊

Part of Speech

Idiomatic expression

Definition

A phrase often used to advise someone to be careful and precise in their words or actions, paying attention to details and nuances.

Examples

• In business, it’s essential to watch your p’s and q’s when negotiating a deal.
• Good communication is crucial when watching your p’s and q’s in a relationship.

Etymology

The phrase is believed to have originated in the late 18th century, when it was used in printing to indicate the careful placement of letters ‘p’ and ‘q’, which are easily confused with each other.

Usage Notes

This phrase is often used in a wide range of contexts, from formal business settings to personal relationships, to remind someone to be mindful of their words and actions.

Cultural References

• In the TV show “The Office,” the character Michael Scott tells his employees to “watch their p’s and q’s” before a meeting with a potential client.

Idiomatic Expressions or Phrases

• Watch your step
• Keep your nose clean

Related Words or Phrases

• Careful
• Aware
• Mindful

Collocations

• Watch your p’s and q’s with your words
• Watch your p’s and q’s in your actions

Frequency of Use

This phrase is commonly used in modern language, especially in formal business settings and in advice-giving contexts.

Common Misspellings

• What does watch our ps and qs mean
• Watch your p’s and q’s meen