keep up with the Joneses

Definition

To act or make purchases for status or image rather than out of need, especially for the purpose of competing with friends, neighbors, or society.

Etymology

Various theories; see Wikipedia article.

Example Sentences

• "Do you really need a fancy new car or are you just trying to keep up with the Joneses?"
• "One of the greatest pitfalls in the path of any young couple is the feeling that they must "keep up with the Joneses." We all think of ourselves as belonging to a certain social group—whether we express it in snobbish terms or not."
• "Nor is it good for the name of the railway industry that skilled men should have to put in so much overtime to keep up financially with the Joneses in other walks of life."