know (one's) place

know (one's) place

To be aware of the limit of one's role in a particular place or situation. I know my place, so I don't bother the CEO when I see him around the office. I'm just an intern, after all.

See also: know, place

know one's place

to know the behavior appropriate to one's position or status in life. I know my place. I won't speak unless spoken to. People around here are expected to know their place. You have to follow all the rules.

See also: know, place

know one's place

Behave suitably for one's position, rank, or status. This idiom often has the sense of "to behave humbly, not criticize ones' superiors," as in Sorry, I know my place and I can't tell you more about my supervisor's plans. [Late 1500s] Also see put one in one's place.

See also: know, place

know your ˈplace

behave in a way that shows that you know what your social position is and which people are more important than you: My grandfather believed that life was simpler when he was young, when everybody knew their place.

See also: know, place