stage
STAYDJ
/steɪdʒ/
A raised floor or platform on which actors, entertainers, or speakers perform; (as a verb) to organize and present a performance.
As a noun, it refers to the physical space of performance. As a verb, it implies the active organization, direction, and presentation of a public event.
The story behind the word. Derived from the Latin 'stare', meaning 'to stand', the word evolved through Old French 'estage' to mean a dwelling place or a floor of a house. In English, it eventually came to designate the specific raised platform where actors stand to perform.
Word relationships
- platform: A 'platform' is any raised surface, whereas a 'stage' is specifically designed for theatrical or artistic performance.
- produce: 'Produce' focuses on the financial and administrative creation of a show, while 'stage' focuses on its physical presentation.
- backstage: 'Backstage' refers to the private areas behind the performance space, out of view of the audience.
Commonly confused with
- scenery: 'Scenery' refers to the painted backgrounds and props, whereas 'stage' is the physical structure they stand on.
Word family
- staging (noun): The method of presenting a play or performance.
Collocations
- take the stage
- stage a play
- on stage
Idioms & expressions
- set the stage
- stage fright
Example sentences
- "All the world's a stage, and all the men and women merely players." One of the most famous theatrical metaphors in history.
- "The activists decided to stage a peaceful demonstration outside the city hall." Staging a protest or public event.
Memory hook
The 'stage' is where you 'stand' to engage the audience. Where you stand to perform.
When not to use
Do not confuse with 'phase' or 'period' when referring specifically to theatrical spaces.
Fun facts
- In medieval times, stages were often mobile carts called pageant wagons that moved from town to town.
Related words
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