Cues Meaning and Definition
Cues
Pronunciation
/kjuːz/
Part of Speech
Noun
Definition
A subtle hint or suggestion that guides or prompts action or behavior, often unconscious or unintentional.
Examples
- The director gave the actors cues to remember their lines.
- The painting’s subtle color cues led the viewer’s eye to the focal point.
Synonyms
- Hint
- Suggestion
Antonyms
- Confusion
- Uncertainty
Additional Information
Cues can be verbal or non-verbal, and can be intentionally or unintentionally provided. They can be used in a variety of contexts, including acting, music, and sports. Cues can be powerful in shaping behavior and decision-making.
Cues can also be used in a broader sense to refer to the underlying motivations or drivers that influence behavior. In this sense, cues can be used to understand human behavior and decision-making.
Etymology
The word “cues” comes from the Old French word “cue”, meaning “indicator” or “pointer”. This word is believed to have originated from the Latin word “cueda”, meaning “a guiding thread”.
Usage Notes
Cues are often used in a subtle way to guide behavior or action, and may not be consciously noticed by the recipient. However, cues can also be intentionally provided to convey meaning or guidance.
Cultural References
Cues have been used in a variety of cultural and creative contexts, including film, theater, and music. For example, in film, cues are often used to coordinate the actions of actors and camera operators.
Idiomatic Expressions or Phrases
“Get the cue” – to catch the hint or understand the subtle suggestion.
Related Words or Phrases
Indicator
Suggestion
Hint
Collocations
Cues and responses
Cues and actions
Frequency of Use
Cues are commonly used in everyday language, particularly in situations where subtle guidance or prompting is needed.
Common Misspellings
Ques, Quez, Kuz