Cue Meaning: Definition, Examples, and Translations
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cue
[kjuː ]
Definitions
in a performance
A signal for action; a prompt or indication.
Synonyms
indication, prompt, signal.
Which Synonym Should You Choose?
| Word | Description / Examples |
|---|---|
| cue |
Commonly used in theatrical or performance settings, it refers to a signal for an actor or performer to begin a specific action or dialogue.
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| signal |
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.
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| prompt |
Often used in educational or instructional settings to mean a reminder or hint to encourage someone to act or speak.
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| indication |
Utilized in formal or professional contexts to refer to a sign or piece of information that suggests something might happen or is true.
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Examples of usage
- She missed her cue and entered too early.
- The actor waited for his cue to enter the stage.
in a conversation
A hint or suggestion to prompt a specific response or action.
Synonyms
hint, prompt, suggestion.
Which Synonym Should You Choose?
| Word | Description / Examples |
|---|---|
| cue |
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.
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| hint |
Used when giving a subtle indication or suggestion, often to help someone guess or understand something without directly stating it.
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| suggestion |
Often used when offering ideas or recommendations, usually in a friendly or helpful manner.
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| prompt |
Used mainly in educational or instructional settings to encourage someone to take action or in technological contexts as a command indicator.
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Examples of usage
- She gave him a cue to start talking about his new project.
- His raised eyebrow was a cue for her to change the subject.
give a cue
To give a signal or prompt to someone.
Synonyms
Which Synonym Should You Choose?
| Word | Description / Examples |
|---|---|
| cue |
Use 'cue' when referring to a hint or signal given to someone to initiate a specific action, often in performances or presentations.
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| signal |
Use 'signal' when referring to a gesture, action, or sound that conveys information or instructions, often in communication or coordination contexts.
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| prompt |
Use 'prompt' when referring to encouraging or provoking someone to take action or respond, often in educational or customer service situations.
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| indicate |
Use 'indicate' when you want to point out or show evidence of something, often in a formal or informative context.
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Examples of usage
- She cued the musician to start playing.
- He cued her to begin the presentation.
Translations
To see the translation, please select a language from the options available.
Interesting Facts
Psychology
- Cues in psychology often refer to signals that trigger specific behaviors or memories, highlighting their role in conditioning.
- People use environmental cues, like the smell of coffee, to help recall information, associating certain scents with study sessions.
- In social settings, nonverbal cues, such as gestures and facial expressions, play a critical role in communication and understanding.
Pop Culture
- In the world of movies and TV, a cue often dictates the score or soundtrack intensity, building emotional response during key scenes.
- The iconic phrase 'Cue the music!' in entertainment showcases how cues guide the flow and mood of performances.
- Reality TV shows frequently employ cues for contestants, signifying when to start challenges or end discussions.
Education
- Teachers often use verbal and visual cues to help students recognize when to pay attention or answer questions.
- In classrooms, specific cues, like clapping or raising hands, can signal students to focus or signal transitions between activities.
- Study cues, such as flashcards or mnemonic devices, assist learners in recalling information more effectively.
Music
- Musicians rely on cues to stay in sync with one another during performances, ensuring everyone knows when to play or stop.
- Conductors give cues to orchestras, using hand signals to indicate tempo changes or dynamics in a musical piece.
- In improvisational music, cues are vital for performers to respond to one another in real-time, creating a cohesive sound.
Origin of 'cue'
Main points about word origin
- The word comes from the Latin 'cauda', meaning 'tail', as it refers to something that follows or leads to an action.
- Cues have been used historically in theater to instruct actors on when to speak or move, making performances smoother.
- In the early 20th century, 'cue' began to be used in film and television, expanding its meaning in artistic contexts.
The word 'cue' originated in the 16th century from the Middle French word 'queue', meaning 'tail'. It was first used in the context of billiards to refer to the stick used to strike the ball. Over time, 'cue' evolved to also mean a signal or prompt, especially in the context of performances. The use of 'cue' in conversation to indicate a hint or suggestion developed later.