Cue or Queue - Common Grammar Mistake

'Cue' and 'queue' are commonly confused words in English grammar. Understanding the difference between 'cue' and 'queue' is important to use them correctly in written and spoken English.

'Cue' is a noun that means a signal or a prompt for someone to do something. It is often used in the context of performances or events, where it indicates the point at which a certain action should be taken.

'Queue', on the other hand, is a noun that means a line or sequence of people or things waiting for their turn. It is often used in the context of waiting in line or organizing tasks or actions in a specific order.

Let's take a closer look at the meanings and usage of 'cue' and 'queue'.

'Cue''Queue'
The word 'cue' is used to indicate a signal or prompt for someone to do something.The word 'queue' is used to indicate a line or sequence of people or things waiting for their turn.
  • The director gave the actor a cue to enter the stage. (indicating a signal for the actor to start performing)
  • She took her cue from the applause and started her speech. (indicating a prompt to begin speaking)
  • We had to wait in a long queue at the ticket counter. (referring to a line of people waiting for their turn)
  • There is a queue of cars outside the parking lot. (referring to a line of vehicles waiting)

To remember the difference between 'cue' and 'queue', it can be helpful to remember that 'cue' is related to signaling or prompting, while 'queue' is related to waiting in line or organizing tasks in a specific order.

Here are some examples of correct usage:

  • The DJ played a song as a cue for the dancers to start.
  • Please join the queue and wait for your turn.
  • I took my cue from the speaker and started applauding.
  • There was a long queue outside the movie theater.

Remembering the correct usage of 'cue' and 'queue' will improve your grammar and communication skills.