B2noun2K

Cue

UK /["/kjuː/"]/US /["/kjuː/"]/

Definition

an action or event that is a signal for somebody to do something

In simple words: A signal or reminder to do something.

Examples

He gave me a subtle cue to start the presentation.
The director shouted 'Cue the music!' to signal the band to begin playing.
Actors often rely on cues from their fellow cast members to know when to speak.
When his mother arrived, it was the cue for him to leave the party.
The cue ball struck the eight ball, sinking it into the pocket.
In psychology, a cue can be any stimulus that triggers a particular behavior.

Usage notes

Use 'cue' when referring to signals, especially in performances or sports. Avoid using it in overly casual conversations.

Grammar pattern

cue + object

Memory hint

Think of a 'cue' as a 'clue' to help you remember what to do.

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

Synonyms

signal
prompt
hint
indication
notice

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.