cue - Master This Word
Master this word with our 5-step learning method – Learn English in English
cue Word Meanings
- a signal for action or attention
- a hint or suggestion
- a reminder or stimulus
cue Example Sentences
Example sentences are the start of understanding. Don't rush to memorize. First feel how the word works in a sentence.
cue Phonetic & Pronunciation
UK
/kjuː/
US
/kju/
cue Word Etymology
cue (root: cue) + no historical prefixes/suffixes; from Latin 'quae' via Old French; imagine an actor on stage waiting for a cue to deliver their lines, signifying 'action'.
Note 1: These definitions and etymologies are not standard dictionary definitions, but extended explanations provided to help with memorization and understanding of the actual application of words. Through this background information, we strive to make words more vivid and easier to understand, and help you remember their meanings in real life.
Note 2: LexiTalk designs the learning flow around the linguistics principle of “Comprehensible Input.” When learners encounter material that is slightly above their level but still understandable from context, the brain naturally absorbs the language. That’s why we keep every word inside authentic contexts, using examples and associations to help you understand it and use it flexibly.
Read the FAQ explanation of Comprehensible InputEnglish Brain Route
I push the chair back and let my eyes drift to a small cue on the shelf. The light shifts as the cue comes into focus, and my attention tightens, then moves. I change my plan a little, hold my breath, adjust my posture, and set my hand ready to act. The signal lands in my mind and I move into action, letting the moment shape what I do next.
Real Context
cue is a versatile word whose core meaning is a signal to act. It can denote a prompt that triggers a response, a hint or suggestion, or a reminder that keeps attention focused. In theatre, a cue is a specific signal—often a line, a sound, or an action—that tells an actor what to do next. As a verb, cue means to signal someone to begin or to bring something to mind. Learners often confuse cue with queue (a line) and overlook that cue can be a concrete signal or a more abstract reminder. English relies on several collocations, such as cue up, give a cue, or take a cue, depending on the context.
Usage Reminders
- Remember: cue can be a noun or a verb.
- Distinguish a cue (signal) from a hint or reminder.
- Theatres: a cue is a precise signal for action.
- Keep collocations in mind: cue up, give a cue, take a cue.
- Avoid confusing cue with queue (sound-alike but different meaning).
Common Misconceptions
- Cue equals queue (they sound similar but mean different things).
- Cue is only a theatrical term; it also means everyday prompts.
- Mistaking cue with hint for all contexts instead of a concrete signal.
- Using cue as a verb when only a noun is appropriate, or vice versa.
- Overgeneralizing cue to passive reminders rather than active prompts.
Thinking Differences
Cue in English is widely used as a concrete signal (or a prompt) that triggers action, and as a verb it emphasizes the act of signaling. Many learners assume cue always refers to an obvious, visible signal and forget that it can be abstract or internal, such as a reminder to think of a next topic. Also, learners often mix up cue with queue because of the similar sound, or overgeneralize theatre senses to everyday situations.
Learning Tips
- Learn common collocations: cue up, give a cue, take a cue.
- Distinguish cue (signal) from hint (an idea) or reminder.
- Pay attention to whether cue acts on someone or signals a pause.
- Practice theatre contexts separately to nail specific phrasing.
- Use real-life examples to identify whether a cue is verbal or nonverbal.
- Review homophones like queue to avoid mix-ups.
5-Step Learning Method - Learn English in English
Step 1: Meaning
What is the meaning of 'cue'?
A.A chemical substance
B.A type of fruit
C.A type of fabric
D.A signal for action
Step 2: Usage
Which of the following sentences uses 'cue' correctly?
A.She ate the delicious cue.
B.I bought fresh cues from the market.
C.He wore a cue shirt to the party.
D.The director gave the actors a cue to start the scene.
Step 3: Similar Words
What is a synonym for 'cue'?
A.Delicious
B.Brick
C.Hint
D.Fast
Step 4: Opposite Words
What is an antonym for 'cue'?
A.Together
B.Copy
C.Silent
D.Disregard
Step 5: Mastery
How is the word 'cue' often used in the context of a play or performance?
A.To indicate the beginning of a scene
B.To signal actors to exit the stage
C.To describe the color of the set
D.To represent the main character
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