What does “Mom and pop” mean?
"Mom and pop" means a small, family-owned business.
What context can I use the in?
Example
I love supporting mom and pop shops in my neighborhood.
Example
The mom and pop store has been in business for over 50 years.
Example
We decided to eat at a mom and pop restaurant instead of a chain
Is “Mom and pop” an expression, an idiom, or a proverb?
“Mom and pop” is a proverb. A proverb is a short saying that teaches us something important or gives us advice. Unlike an idiom, it’s easy to understand even if it uses figurative language.
How would I use “Mom and pop” effectively in context?
You can use "Mom and Pop" to refer to small, family-owned businesses. It emphasizes the idea of a business being run by a couple or a family rather than a large corporation. For example, if you want to express your support for local businesses, you might say, 'I love supporting "mom and pop" shops in my neighborhood.'
- 1Shopping
I prefer shopping at mom and pop stores because they offer unique products and personalized service.
- 2Business
The success of the mom and pop store is a testament to their hard work and dedication.
- 3Dining
Instead of eating at a chain restaurant, we decided to try a cozy mom and pop restaurant.
Similar phrases to “Mom and pop”:
Small business
A business that is privately owned and operated, typically with fewer employees and a smaller scale of operations
Example
She decided to start her own small business instead of working for a large corporation.
Family-owned business
A business that is owned and operated by members of the same family
Example
The family-owned business has been passed down through generations.
Independent business
A business that is not affiliated with a larger corporation or chain
Example
He opened an independent bookstore to provide a unique selection of books.
Good things to know:
Where does the phrase “Mom and pop” come from?
The origin of the phrase "Mom and Pop" is unknown.
Is “Mom and pop” common in everyday conversation?
Yes, "Mom and Pop" is a common expression in everyday conversation, especially when talking about small businesses. It is often used to contrast with larger corporations or chain stores.
What tone does “Mom and pop” have?
"Mom and Pop" conveys a tone of warmth and familiarity. It is often used to evoke a sense of community and support for local businesses.
Can “Mom and pop” be used in informal and formal settings?
Yes, "Mom and Pop" can be used in both informal and formal settings. It is a widely recognized expression that describes a specific type of business. You can use it in casual conversations with friends and family, as well as in more formal discussions about entrepreneurship or local economies.
Can it be used by itself, or is it usually part of a sentence?
It is commonly used as part of a sentence to convey its full meaning. For example, 'I love supporting "mom and pop" shops in my neighborhood.' However, in informal conversations, people might understand the phrase even if used alone, like saying 'Let's go to a "mom and pop"!' to suggest going to a small, family-owned business.
