a subtle cue

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "a subtle cue" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used to refer to a small or indirect signal that suggests something without being overt or obvious. Example: "During the meeting, she gave a subtle cue that indicated her approval of the proposal."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Wiki

Science

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

8 human-written examples

His band members can seem as if they're just following their own instincts, but at a subtle cue they snap into a piece of composed material.

The New York Times

His band members can seem as if they are just following their instincts, but at a subtle cue they snap into a piece of composed material.

The New York Times

It's a subtle cue, but it lets you know it's time to move on.

TechCrunch

For one, the dividing line could be removed, because "it works as a subtle cue to speed up, as it marks one's 'safe territory'," he says.

BBC

Redness in women may therefore not only indicate cardiovascular fitness, but may also be a subtle cue to fertility, as is found in females of other primate species [6], [7].

Plosone

The goal is to have your horse back away from you with a subtle cue.

WikiHow

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

52 human-written examples

You can wean him off reaching towards his ear by using a different, more subtle, cue before reaching to tickle his ear.

WikiHow

There are only a few subtle cues that show a person is nervous and they're so small, that the ordinary person wouldn't put more than 1 second into them.

WikiHow

The present research was designed to examine whether viewing a subtle threat cue, the color red, prior to a simple motor task influences strength output.

Neuroscience Letters

"The findings suggest that care must be taken in how red is used in achievement contexts and illustrate how color can act as a subtle environmental cue that has important influences on behavior," reports the study, published in the Journal of Experimental Psychology.

MIT Technology Review

"It also was another subtle cue that change has occurred in a split-second edit".

The New York Times

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "a subtle cue", ensure that the context provides enough background for the audience to understand the implicit meaning. Overtly explaining the cue defeats its subtlety.

Common error

Avoid using "a subtle cue" when a direct statement would be more appropriate and effective. Overusing it can make your writing seem unnecessarily indirect or vague when clarity is needed.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "a subtle cue" primarily functions as a noun phrase, acting as a subject, object, or complement within a sentence. As evidenced by Ludwig, it often refers to an action or signal that is not immediately apparent but carries significant meaning.

Expression frequency: Uncommon

Frequent in

News & Media

37%

Wiki

33%

Science

17%

Less common in

Academia

8%

Formal & Business

4%

Reference

1%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, the phrase "a subtle cue" refers to an indirect or understated signal that requires careful attention to interpret its meaning. As Ludwig AI confirms, the phrase is grammatically sound and appropriate for various contexts, including news, media, and academic writing. Although not overly common, it is frequently used enough to be understood by a wide audience. When using the phrase, ensure that the context provides sufficient background for the audience to grasp the intended implication. Alternatives like "an implicit hint" or "a slight indication" can be used to convey similar meanings with slightly different nuances. Avoid using "a subtle cue" when a direct statement would be clearer and more effective.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

an implicit hint

This alternative suggests the hint is not directly stated but implied, emphasizing its indirect nature, same as the QUERY.

a slight indication

This alternative focuses on the small degree of the signal, highlighting its unobtrusive quality, like QUERY.

a delicate suggestion

This alternative emphasizes the careful and understated manner in which the signal is given, similar to QUERY.

an indirect signal

This alternative emphasizes the lack of directness in the conveyed message, mirroring the subtlety of QUERY.

a gentle reminder

This alternative focuses on the mild and non-forceful nature of the cue, aligning with the "subtle" aspect of QUERY.

a soft prompt

This alternative highlights the gentle encouragement implied by the cue, aligning with "subtle".

a veiled reference

This alternative indicates that the cue is not openly expressed, but rather concealed or hinted at, capturing subtlety.

an understated clue

This alternative stresses the minimized or subdued nature of the clue, resembling "subtle".

a low-key signal

This alternative highlights the lack of intensity in the signal, similar to the subtlety in QUERY.

a tacit implication

This alternative focuses on the unspoken nature of the cue, where the message is understood without being explicitly stated, conveying subtlety.

FAQs

How can "a subtle cue" be used effectively in writing?

Use "a subtle cue" when you want to hint at something without being explicit. It works best when the audience has enough context to understand the implication. Consider using it to create suspense or intrigue.

What are some alternatives to "a subtle cue"?

You can use alternatives like "an implicit hint", "a slight indication", or "a delicate suggestion" depending on the specific nuance you want to convey.

Is "a subtle cue" appropriate for formal writing?

Yes, "a subtle cue" is appropriate for formal writing as long as it fits the context and tone. It can add sophistication to your writing by implying meaning rather than stating it directly.

What's the difference between "a subtle cue" and "an obvious cue"?

"A subtle cue" is an indirect or understated signal that requires some interpretation, while "an obvious cue" is a direct and easily noticeable signal that leaves little room for interpretation.