status quo

[kwoh]

noun

1. the existing state or condition.

status quo

/ kwəʊ /

noun

1. the existing state of affairs

status quo

1. The existing order of things; present customs, practices, and power relations: “People with money are often content with the status quo.” From Latin, meaning “the state in which.”

Word History and Origins

Origin of status quo¹

First recorded in 1825–35, status quo is from Latin status quō literally, “state in which”

Word History and Origins

Origin of status quo¹

literally: the state in which

Idioms and Phrases

The existing condition or state of affairs, as in We don't want to admit more singers to the chorus; we like the status quo. This term, Latin for “state in which,” has been used in English since the early 1800s.

Example Sentences

That then sets the stage for the next wave of politicians promising to bring a wrecking ball to the status quo.

From BBC

An obvious barrier to enlisting those pillars to challenge the status quo is, of course, that many of them are the status quo.

From Salon

“The status quo is failing miserably the people of L.A. County,” he said.

From Los Angeles Times

There is nonetheless a shared recognition that a defence of the status quo is no longer sustainable.

From BBC

Abrego also said that generations of artists have used the power of television to, “broaden horizons, challenge the status quo and bend that arc of history, towards justice.”

From Los Angeles Times

Related Words

• state of affairs www.thesaurus.com
• status