How Do You Spell ON CUE?

Pronunciation: [ˌɒn kjˈuː] (IPA)

The phrase "on cue" is commonly used in theater and television to describe an action or phrase that is timed perfectly. The first word, "on," is pronounced /ɒn/ in British English and /ɑn/ in American English. The second word, "cue," is pronounced /kjuː/ with a long "u" sound. The spelling of "cue" is derived from the French word "queue," meaning tail or line, and is often used in reference to signaling an actor's entrance or the timing of a specific action during a performance.

ON CUE Meaning and Definition

1. "On cue" is an idiomatic phrase used to describe an action or event that happens at precisely the right moment or time, usually in relation to a predetermined or anticipated signal or cue. It conveys the idea that something occurred exactly when expected or as planned, displaying a high level of synchronization or timing.

   This expression is derived from theater and performance settings, particularly in relation to actors delivering their lines or executing actions in perfect coordination with the script or other performers. In this context, being "on cue" implies being able to react and respond promptly and accurately to cues given by other individuals involved in the production, such as stage managers or directors, ensuring a smooth and seamless performance.

   The term has since extended beyond the theatrical realm and is now widely used to describe any situation in which an action or event occurs precisely when it is supposed to, without hesitation or delay. It signifies a meticulous or well-rehearsed execution, often indicating a high degree of skill, professionalism, or readiness.

   Moreover, "on cue" can also be used metaphorically to describe situations outside the world of performing arts, where individuals or events display a harmonious or perfectly timed response, such as a sports team executing a play flawlessly, or a group of friends unexpectedly finishing each other's sentences. In these cases, being "on cue" denotes a natural and almost intuitive ability to anticipate and align with the timing and expectations of a particular situation or group dynamic.

Common Misspellings for ON CUE

• on cu
• in cue
• kn cue
• ln cue
• pn cue
• 0n cue
• 9n cue
• ob cue
• om cue
• oj cue
• oh cue
• on xue
• on vue
• on fue
• on due
• on cye
• on che
• on cje
• on c8e
• on c7e

Etymology of ON CUE

The phrase "on cue" derives from the theatrical world and originated in the late 16th century. It developed from the practice of signaling actors when it was time for them to make an entrance or to deliver a line. In early theater productions, a "cue" was a stage direction that reminded actors of their upcoming lines or actions. The word "cue" itself is from the Middle English word "cue" or "qwe" meaning "a thing said" or "a prompt". Over time, the phrase "on cue" came to refer to performers executing their actions or lines precisely when indicated, thus ensuring a smooth and coordinated performance. It has since become a widely used idiom outside of the theater, referring to someone or something being perfectly timed or anticipated.

Idioms with the word ON CUE

• on cue "On cue" means at exactly the right moment or at the planned time. It refers to someone or something performing or happening exactly when it is supposed to, without any delay or hesitation.
• (right) on cue "(Right) on cue" means happening at exactly the right moment or time; perfectly timed or timed just right.