Cue: meaning, definitions and examples

Commonly used in theatrical or performance settings, it refers to a signal for an actor or performer to begin a specific action or dialogue.

• The actor waited for his cue to enter the stage.
• The music change served as a cue for the dancers to start.

Usually refers to a gesture, action, or sound that conveys information or instructs someone to perform an action. Can be used in both formal and informal contexts.

• The green light is a signal for cars to proceed.
• She gave him a subtle signal to stop talking.

Often used in educational or instructional settings to mean a reminder or hint to encourage someone to act or speak.

• The teacher gave a prompt to the student who forgot their lines.
• A sudden prompt from his friend helped him to recollect his thoughts.

Utilized in formal or professional contexts to refer to a sign or piece of information that suggests something might happen or is true.

• There was no indication that the meeting would be postponed.
• Early symptoms can be an indication of a developing illness.

Typically used in performance or acting contexts to indicate a signal for someone to begin their speech or action, or in everyday situations to refer to a signal that it's time to start or change behavior.

• The actor waited for his cue before stepping onto the stage.
• The loud music was my cue to start dancing.

Used when giving a subtle indication or suggestion, often to help someone guess or understand something without directly stating it.

• Can you give me a hint about what the surprise is?
• He dropped a hint that he might be moving to another city.

Often used when offering ideas or recommendations, usually in a friendly or helpful manner.

• She made a suggestion to improve the project.
• Do you have any suggestions for a good restaurant?

Used mainly in educational or instructional settings to encourage someone to take action or in technological contexts as a command indicator.

• The teacher's question was a prompt for the students to start discussing.
• The computer prompted me to enter my password.

Use 'cue' when referring to a hint or signal given to someone to initiate a specific action, often in performances or presentations.

• The director gave the actor a cue to enter the stage.
• The teacher used a visual cue to help the students understand the lesson.

Use 'signal' when referring to a gesture, action, or sound that conveys information or instructions, often in communication or coordination contexts.

• She raised her hand to signal that she had a question.
• The green light is a signal for drivers to go.

Use 'prompt' when referring to encouraging or provoking someone to take action or respond, often in educational or customer service situations.

• The teacher's question prompted the students to think critically.
• The software prompted the user to save the changes before exiting.

Use 'indicate' when you want to point out or show evidence of something, often in a formal or informative context.

• The data clearly indicate a rise in temperatures over the last decade.
• He used a pointer to indicate the location on the map.