segue, Segway

The word segue (pronounced SEG-way) is an Italian word meaning “it follows.” Although this word has now passed into general use in English, it was originally a term in music, indicating a seamless transition between pieces of music.

In general language, the verb segue means “to move smoothly from one topic or activity to another.” The present participle is spelled segueing.

  • Ask for participants’ reactions as a way to segue (or as a way of segueing) into the next subject.

Segue can also be used as a noun meaning “a smooth transition.”

  • This discussion provides a nice segue into the last topic.

This term should not be confused with its homonym Segway, which is the brand name for a personal transportation device.

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