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cue

[kjuː]

cue Definition

  • 1a signal for someone to do something
  • 2a long, thin wooden stick used to strike the ball in games such as pool and snooker
  • 3a thing said or done that serves as a signal to an actor or other performer to enter or to begin their speech or performance

Using cue: Examples

Take a moment to familiarize yourself with how "cue" can be used in various situations through the following examples!

  • Example

    The ringing of the bell was the cue for the actors to start the play.

  • Example

    She took his silence as a cue to continue speaking.

  • Example

    He missed the cue and failed to deliver his line on time.

  • Example

    She hit the ball with the cue and it went straight into the pocket.

cue Synonyms and Antonyms

Antonyms for cue

Idioms Using cue

  • at exactly the right moment or time

    Example

    The fireworks exploded on cue, lighting up the night sky.

  • take your cue from someone/something

    to follow someone's example or advice

    Example

    She took her cue from her boss and started dressing more professionally.

  • to signal or prompt someone to do something

    Example

    He gave her the cue to start singing.

Phrases with cue

  • to take a hint or signal and act accordingly

    Example

    When she saw him yawning, she picked up the cue and ended the meeting.

  • a large card with words written on it that is held up for someone to read aloud, especially a television presenter or an actor

    Example

    The presenter forgot her lines and had to read from the cue cards.

  • the white ball that is struck with the cue in games such as pool and snooker

    Example

    He hit the cue ball too hard and it went off the table.

Origins of cue

from Old French 'cuer', meaning 'to drive'

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Summary: cue in Brief

The term 'cue' [kjuː] refers to a signal or prompt for someone to do something, such as a bell ringing to start a play or someone's silence indicating they should continue speaking. It also refers to a long, thin wooden stick used in games like pool and snooker. In theater, a cue can be a spoken line or action that signals an actor to enter or begin their performance. Phrases like 'pick up the cue' and 'cue card' extend its usage, while idioms like 'on cue' and 'take your cue from someone/something' highlight its timing and influence.

How do native speakers use this expression?