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Cue vs Queue? Which One Should You Use When Writing?

Cue vs Queue? Which One Should You Use When Writing?

Often we get a bit confused about the correct word to use when writing. This happens majorly because of the similar pronunciation of words called h0mophones. So, you might be wondering when to use “cue” and “queue”. Well, you are certainly in the right place.

“Cue” functions as both a verb and a noun depending on the context of the sentence. It means a signal to a performer to begin a specific act or speech. “Queue” also functions as a noun and a verb. The most common meaning of the word “queue” is a waiting line which could be of people or things.

We must keep in mind there are lots of things to learn on how to use the correct word in writing. Not to worry though, we will provide you with the proper knowledge and understanding required for accurate usage of the words.

cue word in dictionary

When to and How to Use the Word “Cue” When Writing

Now, we will take a deep dive into how we can use the word “cue” correctly when writing. But before that, there are things we need to understand about the word “cue”, these are the origin, definition, nature of the word, synonyms, and antonyms.

When we talk about the origin of a word, we are referring to where the word was first used and how it came to be. Lots of English words have their origin in Greek, French, Latin, and Spanish.

Now moving to definitions. When we talk about the definition of a word, it simply means what the word implies and means to the reader. Every word is communicating something to the reader, knowing the definition helps you understand the word better.

So, what is the origin of the word “cue”?

The word “cue” comes from the word “qu”, an abbreviation of the Latin “quando” (when), which is from pie root “kwo”, a stem of relative and interrogative pronoun.

Now you have a clear understanding of the importance of knowing the definition of a word, it is time to know the definition of the word “cue”.

The word “cue” has a dual function in a sentence. It can function as both a verb and as a noun. When we use the word “cue” as a verb in a sentence, it means to act as a prompt or reminder, to provide an indication.

Below are some examples of how you use “cue” as a verb when writing.

  1. Taking a cue from Peter, she asked the principal if the students can stay home for some days until the crisis has subsided.
  2. I think it is my cue to go shopping for those new designer bags and shoes at the new mall in the city.
  3. The sound engineer told his students to never forget to cue in the desired sound and lightening effects on every occasion.
  4. She asked the producer and director to cue her in on when she should start her line during the movie production.

When you use the word “cue” as a noun, it means a signal to a performer to begin a speech or action. The word “cue” also refers to a long straight piece of wooden rod used to strike the ball in games like billiards and snooker. Another meaning of the word “cue” as a noun is a signal or reminder to do something. Here are some examples of the use of this word.

  1. Once you hear the sound of the door, that’s your cue to go on stage for your performance.
  2. When I heard the children yawning, I took it as a cue that it is time for them to go to sleep, so I took them to their various bedrooms.
  3. He took the cue and used it to strike the cue ball which led to his victory in the game of pool.
  4. The director decided to give different cues so that all the performers could know when to begin their various acts.

Now, let’s look into the synonyms and antonyms of the word “cue”. Some of the synonyms include signal, indication, remainder, hint, prompting, suggestion, prompt, pool stick, idea, mnemonic, warning, tip-off, innuendo, induce, persuade, remind, and clue. The antonyms of “cue” include ignore, detach, understock, unwind, deflect, conceal, contraindication, disproof. and inactivation.

queue word in dictionary

When And How to Use the Word “Queue” When Writing

Next up, we will look into how we can properly use the word “queue”. We will look at when and how to use the word “queue” when writing. First, we will look into the origin of the word “queue”. Then we will go further into the meaning, synonyms, and antonyms of the word “queue”.

The modern word “queue” comes from the Middle English “queue” (variances of the word are quew, qwew, couwe), which is from “cöe” a word borrowed straight from the Anglo-Norman. And it comes from the Vulgar Latin word “cōda” from the Latin word “cauda.”

The word “queue” as mentioned earlier has a dual function. The word can function as both a noun and a verb. When we use the word “queue” to function as a noun, we refer to a waiting line of things, usually people. It is also known as an order of jobs or messages that is stored temporarily while processing or transmission is in progress. Another meaning of the word “queue” is a braid of hair usually worn hanging at the back of the head. The word “queue” also refers to an ordered list of tasks to be done.

Here are a few examples that show the use of the word “queue” as a noun when writing.

  1. We stood in the queue for hours under the scorching sun waiting to get the exclusive tickets to the international football game.
  2. Our teacher was explaining to us what queue means in terms of computing and technology.
  3. Even though I arrived at the post office early, I had to wait for hours in the queue before I could mail my letter.
  4. She told the hairstylist that she wanted her hair styled as a queue because that was the hairstyle everyone had on.
  5. The amusement park is always filled with queues of people waiting to get an experience of the ride.

When you use the word “queue” as a verb, it means to form or arrange in a line or a queue. Another definition of the word “queue” is to want to do something very much. It also means to place in a sequence or to join a line of people waiting for something.

Now, here are some illustrative examples that detail the use of this word.

  1. The students had to queue for three hours before they “could collect their examination results.
  2. Outside the hall, a lot of skinny young ladies were queuing up for the post of a model for the new fashion magazine.
  3. We all had to queue up in front of the cashier before we could deposit the money.
  4. Queueing at the bank is no longer strange due to the precautionary act caused by the viral Covid-19 virus.
  5. There is always traffic on the road leading to the City Mall and this is as a result of the toll-gate erected a few years ago.

Now, let’s look into the synonyms and antonyms of the word “queue”. Some of the synonyms of “queue” include row, line, procession, file, waitlist, sequence, pigtail, series, concatenation, echelon, progression, succession, group, chain, rank, column, order, and tier. The antonyms of the word “queue” include disorder, derange, rumple, upset, misalign, clutter, break-up, muddle, disarray, disjoint, chaos, disjoint, anachronism, disorganize, jumble, and displace.

Now, we have differentiated between the words “cue” and “queue,” it should be very easy to know when and how to use these words correctly in a sentence. Though they are homophones, they cannot be used interchangeably.

Understanding the Difference Between Both Words

As we have seen in the above explanation on how to and when to use the words “cue” and “queue”, we will notice that both words are completely different and cannot be used interchangeably although the origin can be traced back to the French.

queue of people in airport

Some differences between those words can be seen in their meaning, synonyms, and antonyms. The word “Cue” refers to a sign or signal meant to encourage a person to take an action. “Queue” means a file or line consisting of people or vehicles and is usually ordered.

“Cue” and “Queue” might sound the same but are very different in spelling and meaning. Each word carries a different signification and should be used accordingly.

Final Thoughts

Writing in English is always fun but can be a bit frustrating when you cannot decide the correct word to use because they have the same pronunciation. But having the proper understanding of different homophones makes writing easier and fun. Everything you need to know to enable the use of the words “cue” and “queue” correctly in a sentence has been stated above. So, read up and enjoy.