The phrase "mind ur Ps and Qs"?

Question

Where do you think it comes from? There are two different meanings attached to this phrase. Which do you believe?

Answer 1

I've not heard the pint, quart one.

One i've heard is the p and q look alike.

So why would they not say mind your b and d's or M and W?

Answer 2

Actually, there are more than just two. See here:

http://www.straightdope.com/classics/a3_264.html

I like this one (from the link):

"The simplest explanation is that the expression refers to the difficulty kids have distinguishing lower-case p and q, mirror images of each other. Mind your you-know-whats was thus a teacher's admonition to students."

Hope this helps!

Answer 3

I believe actually has to do with the way the first printing presses or type writers worked, where the P's were the Q's upside down and vice versa.

Answer 4

i imagine a lengthy time period in the past it meant "innovations your Pints and Quarts" as in watch what you drink (do not get less than the impression of alcohol) ... and that morphed into behaving properly (i e no longer less than the impression of alcohol, no longer sloppy, no longer careless)

Answer 5

Be polite/behave well is the generally accepted explanation.

The origins are obscure but there is a discussion at this link:

http://www.phrases.org.uk/meanings/248000.html

Answer 6

1st-> Mind ur pints and quarts,relating to how much drinks (like beer etc.)

2nd-> Mind ur language i.e. be aware of ur pronuinciation.

Answer 7

Mind your Pint and Quarts -- the size of your drink glasses. (Two Pints equal one Quart).

Answer 8

barspeak for mind your pints and quarts...as in simmer down now

Answer 9

i think its please and thank you....well i remember reading this phrase somewhere....a really long time time ago....but then again i maybe wrong!

Answer 10

hmmmmmmmmmmmmmmm