Idiom of the Day

“Keeping up with the Joneses”

In the US, the

family name “Jones” is a very common name. (Smith and Miller are also very common) So, to “keep up with the Joneses,” you are essentially saying you are trying to match what society does, particularly with your possessions. If your neighbor gets a fancy car or a new gadget, you will “keep up with the Joneses” by buying them as well so you do not feel left out. Some people in society take this very seriously, whereas others think it is frivolous and unnecessary.