take a cue

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "take a cue" is correct and usable in written English.
It is typically used when you want someone to learn from your actions, or when someone is giving you a signal to do something. For example, "Take a cue from the other guests, and put your napkin in your lap."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

Take a cue from the talk show host Ellen Degeneres.

The New York Times

His desserts also take a cue from tradition.

The New York Times

Regulators, perhaps, should take a cue from cigarette packaging.

The New York Times

Take a cue from Hemingway: get super-wasted every day.

The New Yorker

A natural, Kramer knew how to take a cue.

The New York Times

Maybe the American government could take a cue from Canada.

The New York Times

But first Ms. Fine will take a cue from Shakespeare.

The New York Times

And take a cue from the picnic crowd on the serving temperature of the chicken.

The New York Times - Magazine

To the Editor: Perhaps law schools should take a cue from medical education and require internships.

The New York Times

So why not take a cue from the shu mai dumpling, which mixes shrimp and pork?

The New York Times - Food

In this, I take a cue from the Swedish director Ingmar Bergman.

The New York Times

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "take a cue", ensure that the source of the cue is clearly identified to provide context and avoid ambiguity. For example, "Take a cue from successful entrepreneurs and focus on building a strong network."

Common error

Avoid using "take a cue" when there's no clear or appropriate source to learn from. Ensure the context offers a relevant example or guideline to follow, otherwise the advice becomes meaningless.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "take a cue" functions as an imperative expression, typically used to suggest that someone should pay attention to and learn from a specific example or signal. As Ludwig AI confirmed, this idiom is commonly used to encourage learning from others.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

89%

Formal & Business

5%

Science

3%

Less common in

Encyclopedias

0%

Wiki

0%

Social Media

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, the phrase "take a cue" is a common and grammatically correct idiom used to suggest that someone should learn from an example or signal. Ludwig AI confirms that its primary function is to provide guidance. While its register is generally neutral, it's frequently used in news and media contexts. To maximize clarity, ensure the source of the cue is well-defined. When aiming for a more formal tone, consider alternatives such as "emulate" or "draw inspiration from". By following these recommendations, you can effectively use "take a cue" in your writing.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

follow someone's lead

This emphasizes the act of being guided by someone's direction or example.

adopt the example

This emphasizes the act of embracing and implementing a model.

follow suit

This alternative implies imitating someone's actions or behavior in a similar situation.

take a leaf out of someone's book

This implies adopting someone's methods or strategies.

emulate

This suggests striving to equal or excel someone or something that is admired.

draw inspiration from

This highlights the act of gaining creative ideas or motivation from something or someone.

get the hint

This refers to understanding an indirect suggestion or signal.

mimic

This involves closely imitating the actions or words of someone.

get wise to

This refers to understanding a situation or learning from experience.

conform to the pattern

This suggests adjusting to fit a standard or established way of doing something.

FAQs

How can I use "take a cue" in a sentence?

You can use "take a cue" to suggest following someone's example or guidance. For instance, "Take a cue from experienced mentors and seek their advice before making critical decisions."

What are some alternatives to "take a cue"?

Alternatives include "follow suit", "emulate", or "follow someone's lead", depending on the specific context you want to convey.

Is it appropriate to use "take a cue" in formal writing?

Yes, "take a cue" is versatile and can be used in both formal and informal contexts. However, consider alternatives like "emulate" or "draw inspiration from" for a more sophisticated tone in formal writing.

What does it mean to "take a cue" from someone?

To "take a cue" from someone means to observe their actions or behavior and use them as a guide for your own actions. It implies learning and adapting based on their example.