prompt
prahMPT
/prɑːmpt/
A recorded audio instruction in an automated phone menu encouraging a caller action.
Refers to interactive voice response (IVR) instructions directing user keypresses or speech.
The story behind the word. From Latin 'promere' (to bring forth). In telephony, system engineers adopted 'prompt' in the 1970s to describe recorded audio cues designed to bring forth immediate caller responses via dual-tone multi-frequency keypads.
Word relationships
- cue: Cue is theatrical or general, whereas prompt in telecommunications refers to specific recorded voice instructions.
- instruction: Instruction is general advice, while prompt is system-generated guidance requiring immediate user input.
Commonly confused with
- greeting: A greeting welcomes you; a prompt directs you to press buttons or state your issue.
Word family
- prompting (noun): The act of giving cues or audio instructions.
Collocations
- voice prompt
- audio prompt
- follow the prompts
- system prompt
Example sentences
- "Follow the automated voice prompt and press one for customer service." Automated voice menu
Memory hook
A PROMPT PROMPTS you to take action right away. Audio cues guiding your choice.
When not to use
Do not confuse with general theatrical prompts given to forgetful actors.
Fun facts
- Interactive Voice Response (IVR) audio prompts were originally recorded on magnetic drum loops before digital chips.
Related words
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Also appears in
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