When using “queue” or “cue,” the context is crucial for deciding which word is appropriate. The word “cue” refers to a signal for action, especially in theater, to prompt someone to do something. It’s been used in this sense since the 1500s. On the other hand, “queue” generally refers to a line or sequence of people or things waiting their turn. This meaning originated in the 1800s.
In the context of this debate:
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Cue: When saying “Cue Mitch Hedberg,” the word “cue” is being used correctly. It’s like saying, “Now enter Mitch Hedberg,” or “Prompt the appearance or mention of Mitch Hedberg.” It’s a signal for something specific to happen or appear, especially in a performance or presentation context.
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Queue: The argument for “queue” seems to be based on the YouTube context, where videos are lined up to play one after the other, hence the term “play queue.” While it’s true that watching a video on YouTube involves adding it to a play queue, the term “queue” in the sense of “Queue Mitch Hedberg” would imply adding him to a waiting list or sequence, which isn’t the intended meaning here.
And actually as far as I can see, there isn’t actually a play queue when you just click on a single video. So if the original commenter was truly trying to say “add Mitch Hedberg to your queue of videos”, fine. However, I have strong doubts about that being what they meant.
