Ever felt the need to buy a new phone just because your friend got one? Or perhaps you’ve noticed your neighbor’s shiny new car and suddenly your old one feels outdated? If so, you’ve experienced the timeless pressure of “keeping up with the Joneses.”
This popular idiom perfectly captures the modern struggle of social comparison — the drive to match or outdo others in lifestyle, possessions, or status. It’s more than just an old saying; it’s a mirror reflecting our deep-rooted desire to belong and appear successful.
In today’s world of social media, influencer culture, and credit cards, the phrase carries even greater weight. What began as a lighthearted expression over a century ago has evolved into a commentary on consumerism, envy, and societal values.
This article explores the definition, history, and psychology behind “keeping up with the Joneses,” revealing why it still matters today. You’ll learn where it came from, how it’s used, what it means in real life, and even how to escape the endless cycle of comparison.
By the end, you’ll see this idiom not just as a figure of speech, but as a life lesson in contentment, mindfulness, and financial wisdom.
What Does “Keeping Up With the Joneses” Mean?
The idiom “keeping up with the Joneses” means trying to match or surpass your neighbors or peers in material possessions, lifestyle, or social status. It reflects the urge to compare ourselves with others and strive for the same (or better) things.
In simpler terms, it’s the idea that your self-worth depends on how well you measure up to those around you.
Example:
“She upgraded her kitchen just to keep up with the Joneses.”
This phrase highlights the competitive social spirit that often leads to financial strain, stress, and dissatisfaction — all in the name of appearing successful.
It’s not just about showing off. It’s about the fear of falling behind. When people feel others are doing better, they often spend more, work harder, or stretch themselves thin just to maintain an illusion of equality.
Literal vs. Figurative Meaning
The idiom can be understood on two levels — literal and figurative.
| Literal Meaning | Figurative Meaning |
| Trying to match your neighbor’s possessions or lifestyle | Competing socially or financially to appear equally successful |
Literal meaning: Imagine two neighboring families — the Joneses and the Smiths. If the Joneses buy a new car, the Smiths might feel pressured to buy one too, just to appear on the same level.
Figurative meaning: It’s not about the Joneses themselves, but the universal human tendency to compare. Whether it’s wealth, beauty, career success, or vacations, people constantly measure their worth against others.
In short:
“Keeping up with the Joneses” is about competition, comparison, and the illusion of success.
Origin and History of the Idiom
The phrase originated from a comic strip created by Arthur R. “Pop” Momand in 1913. The strip, titled “Keeping Up with the Joneses,” ran in American newspapers for nearly three decades.
It humorously depicted a middle-class family constantly struggling to maintain appearances and match their wealthy neighbors — the Joneses. Although the Joneses never appeared in the strip, their presence was felt through the protagonist’s endless efforts to keep up.
Historical Timeline
| Year | Event |
| 1913 | Comic strip “Keeping Up with the Joneses” debuts in The New York Globe. |
| 1920s–1930s | The phrase becomes part of everyday American speech. |
| Post-WWII | Rise of suburban living strengthens the idiom’s cultural meaning. |
| 21st Century | The concept resurfaces in social media culture and influencer trends. |
What started as social satire soon became an idiom symbolizing materialism and social pressure.
Today, it describes not just families in suburbs but anyone caught in the rat race of modern life.
“The phrase was born in humor but matured into a cultural mirror of materialism.”
Examples of “Keeping Up With the Joneses” in Sentences
Using examples helps clarify how this idiom works in real life:
- “After their friends renovated their home, the Parkers started keeping up with the Joneses.”
- “He bought a luxury car he couldn’t afford just to keep up with the Joneses.”
- “Social media has turned keeping up with the Joneses into a global competition.”
- “I stopped keeping up with the Joneses when I realized happiness isn’t for sale.”
- “Companies exploit the ‘keeping up with the Joneses’ mindset to sell more products.”
Each example shows comparison-driven behavior — a mix of envy, pride, and pressure.
Synonyms and Related Expressions
Several idioms and expressions share a similar meaning with “keeping up with the Joneses.” Here’s a quick reference:
| Expression | Meaning | Example |
| The rat race | Endless, self-defeating competition | “I’m done with the rat race.” |
| Status symbol | An item showing social position | “A luxury car is a status symbol.” |
| Peer pressure | Influence to behave like others | “Peer pressure drives many purchases.” |
| One-upmanship | Trying to outdo others | “He always engages in one-upmanship at work.” |
| Keeping appearances | Maintaining an illusion of success | “They’re broke but still keeping appearances.” |
Each of these expressions reflects the same social dynamic — the pressure to appear successful or “fit in.”
Psychological and Social Implications
Why do people fall into the trap of keeping up with the Joneses?
Psychology has an answer.
1. Social Comparison Theory
Coined by psychologist Leon Festinger in 1954, this theory suggests that people evaluate themselves by comparing to others. It’s a natural behavior — we look around to gauge where we stand.
However, constant upward comparison (looking at people who seem better off) often leads to envy, stress, and insecurity.
2. Impact on Mental Health
A 2023 survey by the American Psychological Association found that nearly 72% of adults reported financial stress due to comparing their lives with others, especially online.
Symptoms include
- Low self-esteem
- Anxiety about social image
- Overspending and debt
- Chronic dissatisfaction
3. The Role of Advertising and Social Media
Marketers exploit the comparison instinct. Every ad subtly whispers: “They have it — why don’t you?”
Social media amplifies it. Instagram and TikTok showcase highlight reels — not real life. Yet many compare their behind-the-scenes to someone else’s best moments.
Case Study:
A 2022 Stanford University study found that people who spent over 2 hours daily on social media were 45% more likely to report feeling “behind in life” due to exposure to idealized content.
The conclusion?
“Keeping up with the Joneses” has evolved from a neighborhood rivalry into a digital phenomenon influencing billions.
Cultural and Modern-Day Relevance
In the early 1900s, the Joneses lived next door. Today, they live online — flaunting vacations, homes, and lifestyles on social platforms.
Then vs. Now
| Early 20th Century | 21st Century |
| Envy centered on neighbors or colleagues | Envy expanded globally via social media |
| Driven by physical possessions | Driven by experiences and appearances |
| Limited exposure to others’ wealth | Constant exposure to curated lifestyles |
| “The Joneses” were a few families | “The Joneses” are now millions online |
Global Perspective
While the idiom originated in the U.S., similar concepts exist worldwide:
- UK: “Keeping up appearances”
- Japan: “Mura hachibu” — social exclusion for nonconformity
- India: “Log kya kahenge?” (What will people say?)
- France: “Faire bonne figure” — to keep a good face
The message remains universal: society values image, and people chase it at any cost.
Usage in Pop Culture and Media
The idiom has appeared across films, books, and even marketing campaigns.
In Movies
- Keeping Up with the Joneses (2016) — A comedy about suburban couples caught in deception and competition.
- American Beauty (1999) — Explores suburban conformity and hidden unhappiness.
- The Great Gatsby (1925, book/film)* — A classic example of wealth-driven competition.
In Music
- The Beatles hinted at material envy in “Can’t Buy Me Love.”
- Madonna’s “Material Girl” captured the essence of wanting more to impress others.
In Advertising
Brands use the idiom strategically:
“Don’t just keep up with the Joneses — outshine them!”
The phrase sells products because it taps into a timeless insecurity — the fear of being left behind.
Grammar and Language Notes
To use this idiom correctly, keep these grammar points in mind:
- Always pluralize Jones → Joneses
- Pronounced as /ˈdʒoʊnzɪz/
- Avoid common mistakes:
- ❌ “Keeping up with the Jones”
- ✅ “Keeping up with the Joneses”
In Sentences
- Correct: “We don’t need to keep up with the Joneses.”
- Incorrect: “We don’t need to keep up with the Jones.”
It’s an informal idiom, best used in conversations, essays, blogs, and business commentary to describe consumer behavior or social trends.
Real-Life Lessons: What We Can Learn
The idiom teaches a valuable moral — contentment beats comparison.
Striving to match others often leads to debt, stress, and unhappiness.
Practical Tips to Avoid the Trap
- Define your own success.
Stop measuring by someone else’s yardstick. - Practice gratitude.
Focus on what you have, not what’s missing. - Budget wisely.
Don’t let competition dictate spending. - Limit social media time.
Less scrolling means fewer comparisons. - Value experiences over possessions.
Memories last longer than trends.
Quotes to Reflect On
“Comparison is the thief of joy.” — Theodore Roosevelt
“Be yourself; everyone else is already taken.” — Oscar Wilde
“Happiness is not having what you want but wanting what you have.” — Rabbi Hyman Schachtel
Mini Case Study: Financial Freedom Movement
In 2024, the Financial Independence, Retire Early (FIRE) community reported a surge in membership. Many joined after realizing they were chasing others’ lifestyles instead of building their own.
Their success mantra?
“Don’t keep up with the Joneses — redefine success.”
FAQs About “Keeping Up With the Joneses”
Q1: What does “keeping up with the Joneses” mean?
It means trying to match or surpass your peers’ lifestyle, wealth, or possessions.
Q2: Where did the phrase originate?
From Arthur R. Momand’s 1913 comic strip “Keeping Up with the Joneses.”
Q3: Is the idiom still relevant today?
Yes. With social media and global visibility, it’s more relevant than ever.
Q4: Can it apply in business?
Absolutely. Companies often engage in “keeping up with the competition” by copying trends to appear innovative.
Q5: What’s the opposite of “keeping up with the Joneses”
Being content, minimalist living, or practicing financial independence.
Summary: Why This Idiom Still Matters
“Keeping up with the Joneses” started as a comic strip joke but evolved into a powerful social truth. It reminds us how easily we fall into comparison traps and lose sight of what really matters.
In an age where appearances dominate, the idiom teaches that happiness isn’t found in outdoing others but in appreciating what we already have.
The next time you feel tempted to buy something just to impress, remember:
“The Joneses might be broke trying to keep up too.”
Bella Rae 
Lily Grace