mind your ps and qs

M

mind your p’s and q’s (idiom)
/maɪnd jɔr piz ənd kjuz/

Meaning | Synonyms

• To be attentive to one’s manners and behavior.
• To be cautious about one’s language and actions.
• To be on one’s best behavior.
• be polite
• behave properly

Example Sentences

1. At the formal dinner, she was reminded to mind her p’s and q’s.
2. Children are taught to mind their p’s and q’s in school.
3. In the presence of elders, it’s important to mind your p’s and q’s.
4. Employees are expected to mind their p’s and q’s during meetings.
5. Before visiting the royal palace, guests were advised to mind their p’s and q’s.

Origin and History

The idiom “mind your p’s and q’s” has been a part of the English language for centuries, serving as a reminder to be polite and attentive to one’s behavior. However, its exact origin remains a topic of debate among linguists and historians. Several theories have been proposed, each offering a unique perspective on how this phrase came into existence.

The Printing Explanation

One prevalent theory suggests that the phrase originated from the world of printing. In traditional typesetting, letters were set in reverse, making it easy to confuse the lowercase ‘p’ and ‘q’. Typesetters had to be meticulous to avoid such errors, leading to the admonition to “mind your p’s and q’s.” This explanation emphasizes the importance of attention to detail in the printing profession.

The Tavern Theory

Another popular theory traces the phrase back to English pubs of the 17th century. Bartenders would keep track of customers’ consumption by noting ‘p’ for pints and ‘q’ for quarts on a chalkboard. Patrons were advised to “mind their p’s and q’s” to ensure they were aware of their tab and avoided disputes over their bills. This interpretation highlights the practical aspects of tavern life and the need for patrons to be mindful of their drinking habits.

The Children’s Learning Theory

A more educational perspective posits that the phrase originated in the classroom. Young students learning to write often confuse letters that are mirror images, such as ‘p’ and ‘q’. Teachers would remind students to “mind their p’s and q’s,” encouraging them to pay attention to these commonly confused letters. This theory underscores the challenges of early literacy and the guidance provided by educators.

The French Dance Theory

An alternative origin links the phrase to French dance. In French, ‘pieds’ means feet and ‘queues’ refers to wigs or tails. Dancers were instructed to be cautious of their steps and attire, leading to the admonition to “mind your pieds and queues.” Over time, this phrase may have been anglicized to “mind your p’s and q’s.” This explanation reflects the cultural exchanges between England and France and the importance of etiquette in dance.

Earliest Recorded Usage

The earliest known printed instance of the phrase appears in the 1756 publication “The Life and Memoirs of Mr. Ephraim Tristram Bates,” where it is used in the context of advising someone to be cautious and attentive. This suggests that the phrase was in colloquial use by the mid-18th century, though its exact origin prior to this remains uncertain.0

The Bottom Line

While the true origin of “mind your p’s and q’s” remains elusive, the phrase has undoubtedly cemented its place in the English lexicon as a reminder to be mindful of one’s behavior and manners. Whether stemming from printing practices, tavern customs, educational settings, or dance etiquette, each theory offers a fascinating glimpse into the rich tapestry of linguistic history.

Behaviour, Mind