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quo
challenge the status quo
To behave or do something in a way contrary to that which is generally accepted or expected. I love this filmmaker, his movies really challenge the status quo! It can be risky, but challenging the status quo can be a great way to get ahead in business.
quid pro quo
A favor done for someone in exchange for a favor in return. This Latin phrase means "something for something." You wash my car, and I'll drop off your dry cleaning—quid pro quo. Our company has a specific policy against quid pro quo, to prevent unfair treatment and harassment.
a quid pro quo
(formal) something that you do for someone or give to someone when they have agreed to do something for you
Usage notes: This is a Latin phrase which means 'something for something'.
(often +
for )
The government's commitment to release political prisoners is a quid pro quo for the suspension of armed struggle by the rebels. the status quo
the situation as it is at present, without any changes The army, having maintained the status quo for so long, is embarking on a series of reforms.
quid pro quo
An equal exchange or substitution, as in I think it should be quid pro quo-you mow the lawn and I'll take you to the movies. This Latin expression, meaning "something for something," has been used in English since the late 1500s.
status quo
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.