keep up with the joneses

The phrase "keep up with the Joneses" is an idiomatic expression that refers to the act of trying to match or surpass the lifestyle, material possessions, social status, or achievements of others, often one's neighbors, friends, or colleagues. It embodies the tendency of people to compare themselves to others and feel pressure to acquire the same or similar things in order to appear successful or socially accepted. The term originated in the early 20th century and continues to be used to describe the pursuit of possessions or lifestyles in a competitive and often unnecessary manner.