Mind your Ps and Qs

Meaning

Mind your manners or behavior.

Usage

Warns someone to behave properly.

Origin & History

Origins and dates here are approximate summaries. Many idioms have disputed or unknown origins, and not every date has been checked against a historical dictionary, so treat specific dates and stories as a starting point rather than a citation.

Possible reference to printers' shorthand or pints and quarts in taverns.

19th century British pubs and print shops used the phrase.