Mind Your Ps and Qs

Send us Fan MailDiscussion Focus:The hosts explore the origin and meaning of the phrase "mind your P's and Q's," sharing theories, personal experiences, and research.Main Theories Discussed:Typesetting/Printing Press Theory:The phrase may have originated from early printing, where printers had to be careful not to confuse the lowercase letters "p" and "q," which look similar when set backward for printing.Tavern/Pub Theory:Another theory suggests the phrase comes from English and Australian pubs, where bartenders kept track of patrons' consumption of "pints" and "quarts" (Ps and Qs) on a chalkboard, urging them to "mind their Ps and Qs" to avoid mistakes in billing or overindulgence..Other Theories:Nautical Theory: Sailors were told to mind their "pea coats" and "queues" (braided hair).Politeness Theory: The phrase is a shorthand for "please" and "thank you," though the hosts find this unconvincing.French Dance Terms: Refers to the French dance terms "pied" and "queue."Celtic/Scottish Linguistic Theory: Relates to differences in spelling between Celtic and Scottish languages, though the hosts doubt its validity.Historical Evidence:The phrase appears in records as early as 1602, with the first written example found in 1756: "mind your P's and Q's and always travel in the autumn."Both the printing press and the use of pints/quarts date to the 14th century, so the timing does not clearly support one theory over the other.Modern Usage:Today, "mind your P's and Q's" means to behave properly, be polite, or pay attention to detail, especially in social situations.The hosts agree that, regardless of origin, the phrase is commonly understood as a reminder to act appropriately, particularly in new or formal settings.Personal Reflections:The hosts discuss how the phrase could be used with children as a positive way to encourage good behavior, contrasting it with negative admonitions like "don't act like a hoodlum."They consider experimenting with this approach in their own parenting.Conclusion:The true origin of "mind your P's and Q's" remains uncertain, with several plausible but unproven theories.The phrase's meaning in contemporary English is clear: it is a call for attentiveness to manners and behavior, especially in social contexts. Support the show---Any views expressed on this podcast are those solely of the hosts and is for entertainment purposes only. None of the content is medical advice or financial advice. Special thanks to Tim Wright aka CoLD SToRAGE for his permission to use the song Operatique.