took cues from

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "took cues from" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used to indicate that someone or something has drawn inspiration or guidance from another source. Example: "The artist took cues from nature to create her latest sculpture, capturing the essence of the environment."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Arts

Design

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

57 human-written examples

They took cues from the overall rebranding campaign by McGarryBowen.

The New York Times

The common folk still took cues from their "betters," but they expected to participate in politics.

The New York Times - Books

In his art, he took cues from Aubrey Beardsley and Gustave Moreau.

The New York Times - Arts

He worked with what he saw around him and took cues from his own responses.

The New Yorker

The mayor took cues from London, Stockholm and other foreign cities now trying this solution.

The New York Times

Mr. Varone took cues from the tux and threw in masculine gestures.

The New York Times - Arts

So the kids took cues from their other great love, surfing.

The Guardian

They took cues from the architecture there and included details like moss growing on structures.

The New York Times

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

3 human-written examples

People take cues from the environment.

The New Yorker

Tobin, naturally, has taken cues from the Pope, too.

The New Yorker

Mainstream manufacturers are taking cues from aromatherapists, too.

The New York Times - Food

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "took cues from", ensure the source of inspiration is clearly identified to provide context and avoid ambiguity. For example, "The architect took cues from Bauhaus design principles."

Common error

Avoid using "took cues from" without specifying the source of inspiration. A sentence like "The artist took cues from various sources" lacks clarity. Be specific about which sources influenced the subject.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "took cues from" functions as a verb phrase indicating influence or inspiration. Ludwig AI confirms its correct and frequent usage, demonstrating its role in expressing how one entity derives ideas or style from another. For example, "The mayor took cues from London, Stockholm and other foreign cities now trying this solution."

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

60%

Arts

15%

Wiki

5%

Less common in

Formal & Business

5%

Science

5%

Encyclopedias

5%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The phrase "took cues from" is a common and grammatically sound way to express that something or someone was inspired or influenced by a particular source. As Ludwig AI confirms, this phrase is widely used in various contexts, particularly in news and media, arts, and design. When using this phrase, clarity is key; specify the source of inspiration to avoid ambiguity. Consider alternatives like ""drew inspiration from"" or "followed the lead of" for subtle variations in meaning. Remember, "took cues from" implies inspiration and adaptation, not mere replication.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

drew inspiration from

Emphasizes the act of being inspired, often implying a creative influence.

took inspiration from

Similar to "drew inspiration from" but with a slightly more active connotation.

followed the lead of

Suggests imitation or adherence to a specific example or instruction.

modeled after

Implies a deliberate attempt to replicate or emulate a particular design or pattern.

was influenced by

Highlights the impact one thing had on the subject.

patterned itself on

Similar to "modeled after", suggesting a structural or systematic resemblance.

emulated

Implies striving to equal or surpass the source in some quality or aspect.

was styled after

Focuses on the aesthetic or superficial resemblance.

adopted ideas from

Suggests a more conscious and deliberate selection of concepts from another source.

used as a reference

Highlights the source as a benchmark or point of comparison.

FAQs

How can I use "took cues from" in a sentence?

You can use "took cues from" to indicate that someone or something was inspired or influenced by another source. For instance, "The director "drew inspiration from" classic noir films to create a suspenseful atmosphere in his movie."

What are some alternatives to "took cues from"?

Alternatives include phrases like ""drew inspiration from"", "followed the lead of", or "was influenced by", depending on the nuance you wish to convey.

Is it correct to say "takes cues from" instead of "took cues from"?

Yes, "takes cues from" is the present tense form of the phrase. Use "takes" when describing a current or habitual action, and "took" when referring to a past event. Example: "The current design "takes cues from" modern art, whereas the previous one "took cues from" classical architecture."

What's the difference between "took cues from" and "copied"?

"Took cues from" implies inspiration and influence, suggesting that the subject adapted or reinterpreted elements from the source. "Copied" implies a direct and often exact replication, without significant alteration or originality. The former has positive and creative connotations, while the latter may have more negative connotations.