Phrase guide

keep up with the Joneses

verb · 1 senses · updated from the 2026-07-25 local source snapshot

Definitions and examples are grouped by meaning. Pronunciation, history, word forms, translations, descendants, synonyms, antonyms, derived terms, and related words appear whenever the source provides them.

Sound

Pronunciation

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1

verb

Meaning 1

To act or make purchases for status or image rather than out of need, especially for the purpose of competing with friends, neighbors, or society.

Definition source: English Wiktionary via Wiktextract

Usage: idiomatic

Examples

  • Do you really need a fancy new car or are you just trying to keep up with the Joneses?

Meaning relationships

Synonyms: none provided

Antonyms: none provided

History

Etymology

Various theories; see Wikipedia article.

Across languages

Translations

5 source translations are retained for this English entry.

  • Chinese Mandarin: 爭相攀比 /争相攀比 (zhēngxiāng pānbǐ) — act or make purchases for status or image
  • Chinese Mandarin: 互相攀比 (hùxiāng pānbǐ) — act or make purchases for status or image
  • Finnish: olla mukana elintasokilpailussa — act or make purchases for status or image
  • Tày: bì — act or make purchases for status or image
  • Vietnamese: so bì — act or make purchases for status or image