Skip to main content

status quo — the existing state of affairs, especially regarding social or political issues

Part of speech: NOUN

Definition: the existing state of affairs, especially regarding social or political issues

Pronunciation (IPA): /ˈsteɪtəs ˈkwoʊ/

Example Sentences

  • The principal loved the status quo - no changes meant no complaints from parents.
  • Tech companies often disrupt the status quo with innovative products.
  • His lazy cat was the ultimate defender of the status quo - it never moved from the couch.

status quo

NOUN

[/ˈsteɪtəs ˈkwoʊ/]

the existing state of affairs, especially regarding social or political issues

an elderly council member raises his hand to reject a proposed change while other members nod in agreement. A younger person stands at a podium holding colorful renovation plans for the old town square. The council members shake their heads and point to the current old-fashioned town photos displayed on easels. The plans remain untouched on the table as the meeting continues with crossed arms and dismissive gestures. Other community members in the background look resigned as they witness another proposal being turned down. the existing state of affairs being maintained despite calls for change
💡 Concept

an elderly council member raises his hand to reject a proposed change while other members nod in agreement. A younger person stands at a podium holding colorful renovation plans for the old town square. The council members shake their heads and point to the current old-fashioned town photos displayed on easels. The plans remain untouched on the table as the meeting continues with crossed arms and dismissive gestures. Other community members in the background look resigned as they witness another proposal being turned down. the existing state of affairs being maintained despite calls for change

Got the picture? Now let's practice.

Start FreeDemo

🎤Pronunciation

🇺🇸 US/ˈsteɪtəs ˈkwoʊ/
🇬🇧 UK/ˈsteɪtəs ˈkwəʊ/

🌳Etymology

Rootstatus

Origin

From Latin, literally meaning 'the state in which.' Originally part of the longer legal phrase 'status quo ante' (the state in which things were before), but shortened over time to refer to the existing state of affairs.

Breakdown

status (state, condition) + quo (in which, wherein)

🎵Rhyme

goflowshowknow
go
flow
show
know

🔗Collocations

maintain the status quo
challenge the status quo
preserve the status quo
disrupt the status quo
defend the status quo

📝Examples

😄 Fun example

“The principal loved the status quo - no changes meant no complaints from parents.”

“Tech companies often disrupt the status quo with innovative products.”

😄 Fun example

“His lazy cat was the ultimate defender of the status quo - it never moved from the couch.”

“The political candidate promised to challenge the status quo in healthcare policy.”

📚Related Words

Synonyms

current situationexisting conditionpresent stateestablished order

Antonyms

changereformrevolution

Related

traditionconventionestablishmentstabilitycontinuity

Want to master 19,000+ words?

Sign up free for flashcards & quizzes.

Start for Free60s Demo