wait for cue

USAGE SUMMARY

"wait for cue" is correct and usable in written English.
You can use it when you are providing instruction to someone who needs to await a signal before taking a specified action. For example: "When the director yells 'action', wait for cue before you start speaking your lines."

✓ Grammatically correct

Science

News & Media

Formal & Business

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

60 human-written examples

For young puppies, don't wait for cues because there often aren't any.

WikiHow

DreamWorks waiting for cue from Toshiba on Blu-ray [Reuters].

TechCrunch

Many of the people who massed at his home on Friday said they were waiting for cues from Mr. Aristide on whom to vote for.

The New York Times

In the United States, investors had been waiting for cues from the Federal Reserve on the economy, and in the afternoon they got what they expected.

The New York Times

Because of their vulnerability to fraud, online courses are likely to include a multiple-choice answer grid that can be completed only by waiting for cues that punctuate the course material, like on-screen or auditory announcements that "the answer to Question 7 is Letter A," as well as quizzes.

The New York Times

The birds formed a stable hierarchy, where certain individuals made decisions and others waited for cues.

Science Magazine

Officials said they will spend the next several weeks collecting data and waiting for cues from the California Legislative Analyst's Office and from School Services of California, a private firm that advises the state on education issues.

Los Angeles Times

They were informed that they would hear either a word or noise cue accompanying each picture, but they were not to wait for this cue to finish before naming the picture.

Current Biology

I wait for my cue.

The New York Times - Magazine

With shoulders pulled right back, lower backs arched and ribcages out, dancers stand with confrontational poise as they wait for their cue.

The Guardian

Usually after the second show, I pull out a book and wait for my cue on the headset, but I watched it every night.

The New York Times - Arts

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "wait for cue" in instructional contexts, ensure the cue is clearly defined to avoid ambiguity. For example, specify whether the cue is visual, auditory, or a combination of both.

Common error

Avoid assuming the recipient understands what constitutes the "cue". Always define the cue explicitly to prevent misinterpretation and delays.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "wait for cue" functions primarily as a directive or instruction, advising someone to delay action until a specific signal or indication is given. Ludwig AI indicates that this phrase is commonly used in English.

Expression frequency: Missing

Frequent in

Science

0%

News & Media

0%

Formal & Business

0%

Less common in

Science

0%

News & Media

0%

Formal & Business

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The phrase "wait for cue" is a directive to delay action until a specific signal is given, ensuring coordinated and timely responses. Ludwig AI confirms its grammatical correctness and usability in various contexts. While example sentences are currently limited, related phrases like "await signal" and "hold off until prompted" provide alternatives for nuanced communication. When using the phrase, define the "cue" clearly to avoid ambiguity. This phrase is versatile and suitable for both professional and informal settings, emphasizing its practical utility in ensuring synchronized actions.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

watch for the signal

Emphasizes the act of observing and being alert for the cue.

await signal

Focuses on the 'signal' aspect more than the 'cue', suggesting a more formal or technical context.

await the go-ahead

Focuses on waiting for explicit permission or approval to begin.

hold off until prompted

Emphasizes delaying action until a direct instruction is given.

remain on standby

Implies being prepared and ready to act once the signal is given.

stay put until signaled

Implies remaining stationary or in position until a signal is received.

expect the sign

Highlights the anticipation of a sign or indication that action is needed.

bide time until indication

Suggests a strategic delay until a clear sign appears.

pause for direction

Highlights a temporary halt to receive instructions.

look for a green light

Uses a metaphorical 'green light' to represent permission or readiness to proceed.

FAQs

How can I use "wait for cue" in a sentence?

You can use "wait for cue" when providing instructions or describing a process where action should be delayed until a specific signal is received. For example, "The actors should "wait for cue" from the stage manager before entering."

What is a more formal alternative to "wait for cue"?

In more formal settings, you might use phrases like "hold until prompted" or "remain on standby until signaled" to convey a similar meaning with a more professional tone.

Which is correct, "wait for a cue" or "wait for cue"?

Both "wait for a cue" and "wait for cue" are grammatically acceptable, but "wait for cue" is more common when referring to a specific, predetermined signal. "Wait for a cue" is more appropriate when the cue is not yet known or defined.

What does it mean to "wait for cue" in a theatrical context?

In theater, to "wait for cue" means to pause and listen for a specific line, action, or sound that signals the actor's turn to speak or move. It ensures synchronization and timing within the performance.