Marquee vs. Marquis: What's the Difference?
The words marquee and marquis are homophones that significantly differ in meaning. A marquee refers to a large tent or structure, often used for outdoor entertainment, or the sign above the entrance of a theater. On the other hand, a marquis is a noble title ranking below a duke and above a count. Understanding this distinction is crucial, especially in historical, event planning, or architectural contexts.
How do you use the word marquee in a sentence?
Marquee is typically used to reference a substantial tent set up for outdoor events such as weddings or circuses. It also refers to the signage above a theater or a hotel that displays its name and possibly the title of a current performance or event. Marquee is most commonly used as a noun.
Examples of marquee in a sentence
- The wedding reception was held under a large marquee that was beautifully lit in the evening.
- As the main draw, the band's name was prominently featured on the theater's marquee.
- During the film festival, each featured movie was displayed on the marquee every day.
How do you use the word marquis in a sentence?
Marquis is used when referring to a member of the nobility who ranks above a count and below a duke. It is a hereditary title in many European peerage systems and is significant in historical or genealogical contexts. As a noun, marquis is related to discussions of social hierarchy, titles of nobility, and historical accounts.
Examples of marquis in a sentence
- The marquis held great influence over the political decisions in his region during the 17th century.
- At the royal court, the marquis was recognized for his service to the crown with a grand ceremony.
- In the lineage of her family, she discovered that one of her ancestors was a marquis who owned vast lands.
Marquee and marquis definition, parts of speech, and pronunciation
Marquee definition:
Marquee is a noun that denotes a large tent or structure, commonly used for social events or gatherings outdoors. It also refers to the signboard above a theater entrance showcasing its name and current showings.
Marquee parts of speech:
Marquee pronunciation:
Marquee is pronounced as /ˌmɑːrˈkiː/.
Marquis definition:
Marquis is a noun that refers to a member of the European nobility, ranking above a count and below a duke.
Marquis parts of speech:
Marquis pronunciation:
Marquis is pronounced as /ˈmɑːrkwɪs/.
Marquee is a noun that denotes a large tent or structure, commonly used for social events or gatherings outdoors. It also refers to the signboard above a theater entrance showcasing its name and current showings.
Marquee parts of speech:
- The marquee was set up in advance to protect the guests from potential rain.
Marquee pronunciation:
Marquee is pronounced as /ˌmɑːrˈkiː/.
Marquis definition:
Marquis is a noun that refers to a member of the European nobility, ranking above a count and below a duke.
Marquis parts of speech:
- The lands once governed by the marquis are now open to the public as historical sites.
Marquis pronunciation:
Marquis is pronounced as /ˈmɑːrkwɪs/.
Marquee vs. Marquis in a nutshell
Though pronounced similarly, marquee and marquis have separate meanings and uses. A marquee is a large canopy or sign often associated with events and theaters, while a marquis is a rank of nobility. Marquees are related to gatherings and announcements, and a marquis is associated with historical social structures and ranks. These distinctions are important to avoid confusion in communication, particularly when discussing historical contexts or event organization.
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