Phrasal verb
cue up
Definition
phrasal verb. to get a piece of media, like a song or video, ready so it can start at exactly the right moment. You use this when you want to prepare something to play next.
phrasal verb. to position a recording or digital file at a specific starting point in readiness for playback. This transitive phrasal verb is common in broadcasting and general digital media management.
Examples
“Please cue up the next song on the playlist.”
“While the presenter was finishing her introduction, the technician cued up the video clip to ensure a smooth transition.”
“The radio producer cued up the pre-recorded interview, waiting for the precise second the host finished the lead-in to trigger the playback.”
Examples
simple
“Please cue up the next song on the playlist.”
contextual
“While the presenter was finishing her introduction, the technician cued up the video clip to ensure a smooth transition.”
complex
“The radio producer cued up the pre-recorded interview, waiting for the precise second the host finished the lead-in to trigger the playback.”
Usage
Commonly used with objects like 'track', 'video', 'clip', or 'presentation'.
Teaching tip
Contrast 'cue up' with 'queue up' as they are homophones; 'cue' involves timing and preparation, while 'queue' involves ordering and sequences.
Pitfall
Wait while I queue up the next slide.
Wait while I cue up the next slide.
Learners often confuse the homophones 'cue' (a signal to start) and 'queue' (a line or sequence).
Phrasal verb
Particles
up
Separability
optional
Pattern
cue + up + object
Synonyms
Antonyms
Grammar
- Exam level
- CambridgeCambridgeCambridge English QualificationsThe exam suite from Cambridge University Press & Assessment, from A1 Movers up to C2 Proficiency. The benchmark names double as CEFR labels.B2 FirstIELTSIELTSInternational English Language Testing SystemThe 0–9 band test co-owned by the British Council, IDP, and Cambridge. Used for university entry, work, and migration.5.5–6.5TOEFL iBTTOEFL iBTTest of English as a Foreign Language, Internet-Based TestETS's academic English test, the standard route for US university admissions. Scored 0–120, with a 1–6 scale since 2026.1–6 scale: 4.0–4.572–94TOEICTOEICTest of English for International CommunicationETS's workplace English test, big in Japan and Korea. Listening & Reading scores 10–990 and tops out at C1.785–944
- Level
- B2 · Upper Intermediate
- Updated
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