age before beauty

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age before beauty

1. (idiomatic) A phrase said to allow older people to go before younger ones.
   • 1938 September 16, John Carter, “Best Sellers and the Atlantic”, in The Spectator, page 448:

     It is recorded that Mrs. Parker and a snooty debutante were both going in to supper at a party: the debutante made elaborate way, saying sweetly "Age before beauty, Mrs. Parker." "And pearls before swine," said Mrs. Parker, sweeping in.

Now most often used humorously or lightheartedly, and usually said by a younger person to an older friend or relative out of mock pity (for being so much older and unattractive – even if such is not the case). In most instances it would be considered rude for a younger man to say this to an older woman.