joined the queue

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "joined the queue" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used when referring to the act of taking a place in a line or waiting for something, typically in a public setting. Example: "After arriving at the concert, we quickly joined the queue to secure our spots near the front."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

46 human-written examples

He joined the queue with a plastic bucket.

The Guardian

When more people joined the queue, it was easier.

The Guardian

"For the poets," they heard, and joined the queue.

The Guardian - Books

Feeling a little overwhelmed we joined the queue for the oxygen bar.

Independent

Uruguay decreed a three-day bank holiday and joined the queue for extra IMF help.

The Economist

So, at 9.30am I joined the queue in the Metro station.

Independent

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

14 human-written examples

What seemed most revolutionary to some observers was the new mix of society that joined the queues.

The Guardian - Arts

"Join the queue," she said.

The Guardian

I'm joining the queue now.

The Guardian - Film

He may need to join the queue.

The Guardian - Music

"Let her join the queue," Kwairanga instructed his harried volunteers.

The Guardian

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Consider the audience and context; "joined the queue" is universally understood, but alternatives like "got in line" might be more suitable for informal settings.

Common error

Avoid using "joined the queue" in contexts where there isn't an implied order or system. For example, don't say "He joined the queue of people who dislike the movie" if there's no formal grouping or waiting involved.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "joined the queue" functions as a verb phrase indicating the action of entering a line or waiting list. As Ludwig AI confirms, it is correct and usable in English. It often implies a structured or orderly system of waiting.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

97%

Science

1%

Formal & Business

1%

Less common in

Academia

0%

Encyclopedias

0%

Wiki

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, the phrase "joined the queue" is a grammatically correct and frequently used expression that describes the act of entering a line or waiting list, as confirmed by Ludwig AI. Predominantly found in News & Media sources, its neutral register makes it suitable for various contexts, although alternatives like "got in line" might be preferred in more informal settings. Common errors involve misusing it in contexts lacking a structured waiting system. Related phrases offer subtle variations in formality and emphasis. Mastering its usage involves understanding both its literal and figurative applications.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

entered the queue

Directly replaces "joined" with "entered", maintaining a similar level of formality.

got in line

More informal alternative, emphasizing the physical act of positioning oneself in a line.

lined up

Similar to "got in line", but can also imply a more organized or formal arrangement.

queued up

A more concise, primarily British English, alternative.

took one's place in the queue

More formal and emphasizes the act of assuming a designated spot.

added oneself to the queue

Slightly more descriptive, highlighting the addition of a person to the existing line.

became part of the queue

Emphasizes integration into the existing line or waiting list.

fell into line

Suggests conforming to the existing order or procedure, implying a more passive action.

enqueued

A technical term, particularly used in computer science, indicating the addition to a waiting list.

submitted an application

Implies joining a waiting list, but changes the context toward a more formalized procedure.

FAQs

What does "joined the queue" mean?

The phrase "joined the queue" means to take a place in a line or sequence of people waiting for something. It can refer to a physical line or a metaphorical waiting list.

What can I say instead of "joined the queue"?

You can use alternatives like "got in line", "lined up", or "entered the queue" depending on the context.

Is "queue" used in American English?

While "queue" and "joined the queue" are more common in British English, they are understood in American English. However, phrases like "got in line" are generally preferred in the United States.

How can I use "joined the queue" in a sentence?

Example sentences include: "After the announcement, everyone joined the queue for tickets", or "The company joined the queue of those seeking government assistance".