Translation guide
The English word 'cue' has several distinct meanings. This guide covers the most common ones for learners: a signal to begin, a hint or prompt, and a stick used in billiards. It also notes the theatrical meaning and the verb form.
A signal for someone to start an action, especially in performance or broadcasting.
General word for a signal or sign to start something. Can be used in many contexts, not just performance.
監督の合図で演技を始めた。
I started acting on the director's cue.
Loanword from English, commonly used in theater, TV, and music production. Very specific to performance cues.
キューを待ってからセリフを言ってください。
Please wait for your cue before saying your line.
Specifically a cue for one's turn to go on stage or perform.
出番の合図を聞き逃さないように。
Don't miss your cue to go on.
A subtle signal or hint that prompts someone to say or do something.
Also used for subtle signals in conversation, like a nod or a look.
彼女の目配せが話を始める合図だった。
Her glance was my cue to start talking.
A trigger or opportunity that prompts an action. Often used for starting conversations or relationships.
Loanword meaning a sign or signal, often used in casual contexts.
The long stick used to hit the ball in billiards, pool, or snooker.
Standard term for a cue stick in billiards.
新しいキューを買った。
I bought a new cue.
Literally 'billiards cue'. More explicit but rarely needed.
撞球のキューは長さが重要だ。
The length of a billiard cue is important.
To signal someone to begin or to prompt an action.
The most common way to say 'to cue' someone. Use with に for the person.
彼に始めるように合図をした。
I cued him to start.
Used in performance contexts, literally 'to give a cue'.
音響さんがキューを出した。
The sound technician cued (the effect).
Both can be used for theater or music cues. 合図 is broader (any signal), while キュー is specifically a performance cue and sounds more technical. In casual conversation, 合図 is safer.
キュー is not used for subtle social hints or prompts. Use 合図 or きっかけ instead.
出るタイミングを逃した。
I missed my cue.
Often expressed as 'missing the timing' rather than directly translating 'cue'.
彼の冗談が会話のきっかけになった。
His joke was a cue to start a conversation.
His nod was a cue that he agreed.