mind one's p's and q's

English

Pronunciation

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Etymology

Disputed; see the alt.english.usage FAQ. May be an alteration of "mind your 'please's and 'thank you's". Other possibilities include: when behaving poorly in a pub due to drinking too much beer, the bartender may use the phrase meaning "Be mindful of how many Pints and Quarts you are drinking because it is starting to show in your behavior."; or in typesetting where letters are arranged in mirror orientation and lowercase p's and q's can be easily confused.

Verb

to mind one's p's and q's

1. (idiomatic) To be very careful to behave correctly.

   When we go to visit, do remember to mind your p's and q's, children — we don't want another incident like last time.