Cool MateCue vs That was the signal
When to use each in English, with meaning, register, and examples.
Cue
Top 2,000 (common)B2noun
That was the signal
Top 2,000 (common)
| Cue | That was the signal | |
|---|---|---|
| Pronunciation | 🇬🇧 /["/kjuː/"]/🇺🇸 /["/kjuː/"]/ | 🇬🇧 //ðæt wəz ðə ˈsɪɡnəl//🇺🇸 //ðæt wəz ðə ˈsɪɡnəl// |
| Meaning | A signal or reminder to do something. | A signal is a sign to do something. |
| Example | He gave me a subtle cue to start the presentation. | When the bell rang, that was the signal for everyone to start the exam. |
| Register | Neutral | Neutral |
| How common | Top 2,000 (common) | Top 2,000 (common) |
| CEFR level | B2 | - |
| Part of speech | noun | |
| Collocations | visual, wait for, follow, take, on cue, cue for, right on cue, take your cue from somebody/something, visual, wait for, follow, take, on cue, cue for, right on cue, take your cue from somebody/something | give a signal, receive a signal, clear signal, signal to start, signal for help |
| Antonyms | distraction, misdirection | - |
| Common mistakes | Confusing 'cue' with 'queue' which means a line of people., Using 'cues' instead of 'cue' when referring to a single signal., Mispronouncing 'cue' as 'kyoo' instead of 'kwu' in some dialects. | Confused with 'sign'. 'Signal' is more specific., Using it in unrelated contexts, like referring to mere events., Overusing in casual conversations, it fits better in descriptive contexts. |
| Usage notes | Use 'cue' when referring to signals, especially in performances or sports. Avoid using it in overly casual conversations. | Used in contexts where a cue is given. It is appropriate in both informal and formal settings. |
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Frequently asked questions: Cue vs That was the signal
What's the difference between Cue and That was the signal?
Cue: A signal or reminder to do something. That was the signal: A signal is a sign to do something.
Can you show an example of each?
Cue: He gave me a subtle cue to start the presentation. That was the signal: When the bell rang, that was the signal for everyone to start the exam.
Can I use Cue and That was the signal interchangeably?
Not always. Cue and That was the signal are related and overlap in some contexts, but they differ in register, how common they are, and usage, so swapping one for another can change the meaning or tone. Check the differences above before substituting.