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Miscue Meaning: Definition, Examples, and Translations

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miscue

[ˈmɪs.kjuː ]

Definition

Context #1 | Noun

reading error

A miscue is a term used to describe an error made by a reader while interpreting or pronouncing words. It often occurs in the context of reading aloud, where a reader may substitute, omit, or mispronounce words. Miscues can provide insight into a reader's understanding and fluency. Teachers often analyze miscues to improve reading skills and comprehension. They can also be indicative of a reader's level of literacy and familiarity with the material.

Synonyms

blunder, error, mistake.

Examples of usage

  • The teacher noted several miscues during the reading assessment.
  • Her miscue on the word 'together' led to confusion in the sentence.
  • Analyzing miscues can help diagnose reading difficulties in students.

Translations

To see the translation, please select a language from the options available.

Origin of 'miscue'

The word 'miscue' is a combination of the prefix 'mis-' meaning 'wrongly' and the word 'cue,' which originally referred to a hint or signal. The origins of the prefix 'mis-' can be traced back to Old English, derived from the Proto-Germanic *mis-, which denotes incorrectness or failure. The word 'cue' has its roots in the Latin 'cues' meaning 'a signal' or 'a reminder' and was later adopted in the context of performance or reading in the 20th century. The term gained prominence in the field of education and literacy as a means to identify reading errors and provide feedback, especially during oral reading assessments. It highlights the importance of understanding reader responses as part of the learning process, making 'miscue' a significant term in educational psychology and literacy studies.

Word Frequency Rank

Ranking #38,646, this word is encountered relatively rarely in everyday English. It might appear in literary works or specialized texts but isn't essential for general communication.