status quo
Say it: STAY-tus KWOH /ˌsteɪtəs ˈkwəʊ/ · noun
What “status quo” means
The way things are at the moment.
More precisely: The existing state of affairs.
Example: “New hires often question the status quo, and that's healthy.”
When to use it
Use it when discussing whether familiar arrangements should stay or change, especially at work or in politics. It sounds formal.
Similar words
current situation, norm, existing order
Where it comes from
Latin, 'the state in which' things are.
Quick check
The club votes to keep its current rules and meeting times exactly as they are. What are they keeping?
a fresh start or the status quo?
Show the answer
the status quo
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