Cue and Queue: Definition and Synonyms
cue and queue – Definition and Part of Speech
The words “cue” and “queue” are homophones in English, meaning they sound the same but have different meanings and spellings.
- Cue: This can function as a noun or verb. As a noun, it refers to an indication or signal for something to start or occur, often used in performances (e.g., theater) or sports. As a verb, “cue” means to provide this signal or prompt.
Example: The director gave the actor a subtle cue before his entrance.
- Queue: Primarily functioning as a noun and less commonly as a verb, “queue” refers to a line or sequence of people waiting for something, like tickets or service. As a verb, it means to arrange in a line or order.
Example: There was a long queue at the checkout counter.
Core Synonyms
Here are some key synonyms for both cue and queue, organized by their primary meanings:
| Synonym | Brief Definition/Nuance | Example Sentence | Style/Register |
|---|---|---|---|
| Signal | A cue, especially in the context of communication or starting an event | “The conductor raised his baton as a signal to begin.” | Formal/Informal |
| Prompt | Suggests encouragement or reminder; often used with actors or speakers | “The host gave the speaker a prompt when it was time to start.” | Academic/Performing Arts |
| Line | Refers to queue in contexts like waiting for service | “There was a long line at the coffee shop this morning.” | Informal/Business |
| Row | Another term for a sequence of people or things, often implying orderliness | “A row formed outside as people waited for the concert tickets to go on sale.” | Casual/Formal |
Usage Notes
- Signal: Common in formal and informal settings, “signal” is versatile and can refer to non-verbal cues like lights or gestures. It’s preferred when discussing communication devices or systems.
Business: The alarm system sends a signal if an unauthorized entry is detected.
Academic: In psychology, body language often acts as a powerful non-verbal signal during interactions.
- Prompt: This synonym carries nuances of immediacy and encouragement, making it suitable for contexts involving timing or performance.
Performing Arts: During rehearsals, the stage manager used various prompts to ensure actors hit their marks accurately.
Educational: Teachers often provide prompts to guide students through complex problem-solving processes.
- Line: This is a direct synonym for “queue” and can be found in both business settings and casual conversation, emphasizing sequence and order.
Business/Casual: At the bank, customers must stay behind their number’s line until called.
Casual: “I’ll join you later; I’m still stuck in this lunch-hour line.”
- Row: Although synonymous with “queue” and “line,” “row” may be used when emphasizing visual arrangement or physical orderliness.
Formal/Casual: The librarian asked the children to form a neat row before entering the library.
Creative Writing: A silent row of statues watched over the ancient courtyard, their expressions forever frozen in time.
Common Pitfalls
- Mixing up Cue and Queue: A common error is confusing “cue” (signal or prompt) with “queue” (line). Remember that cues are about initiating actions, while queues deal with waiting.
- Signal vs. Prompt: While both can refer to cues, “prompt” often carries a nuance of encouragement or direct suggestion, whereas “signal” is more neutral and broad in context.
Final Recap
In summary, cue primarily involves signaling or prompting an action, while queue relates to lining up in sequence. Their main synonyms include:
- For Cue: Signal (general), Prompt (specific encouragement)
- For Queue: Line (direct synonym), Row (emphasizing arrangement)
Understanding these nuances enhances both written and spoken communication across various contexts. To strengthen your grasp, try incorporating these terms into everyday conversations or writing exercises to see which words naturally fit best in different scenarios.