Cue
Noun
Definition: A thing said or done that serves as a signal to an actor or other performer to enter or begin their speech or performance.
Definition: A signal or hint that is used as a prompt for action or a response.
Synonyms: Signal, Prompt, Sign, Indication
Antonyms: Confusion, Miscommunication
- The director gave the actor a cue to enter the stage.
- The ringing phone was a cue for her to leave the room.
- Think of a cue as a signal or prompt for someone to do something.
- Cue rhymes with "do" - it's what tells someone to do something.
Etymology:
The word "cue" originated from the Middle English word "que" which means a thing said or done for signaling or indicating. It is derived from the Old French word "coo" meaning "tail" or "end".
Historical Usage:The word "cue" has been used in the context of signaling or prompting since the 16th century.
Related Idioms:
"Pick up the cue"
Explanation:This phrase means to respond or take action based on a given signal or hint.
Misconceptions:
Confusing "cue" with "queue"
Explanation:Although they sound the same, "cue" and "queue" have different meanings. "Cue" refers to a signal or prompt, while "queue" refers to a line or sequence of people or things waiting for something.