cue sheet: meaning, definition, pronunciation and examples
C1Technical/Professional
Quick answer
What does “cue sheet” mean?
A list or script giving instructions or the sequence of events, audio cues, or technical details for a performance or broadcast.
Audio
Pronunciation
Definition
Meaning and Definition
A list or script giving instructions or the sequence of events, audio cues, or technical details for a performance or broadcast.
In modern media, a detailed list specifying the timing, content, and technical parameters of audio or video elements for a radio/TV programme, film, or music show. In motorsport, a document detailing stage information and directions for a rally.
Dialectal Variation
British vs American Usage
Differences
Usage is identical, but spelling follows regional norms (e.g., 'programme' in the UK context vs. 'program' in the US).
Connotations
Implies a high degree of technical planning and coordination. Neutral in both dialects.
Frequency
Equally low-frequency in general language but standard within relevant technical fields in both regions.
Grammar
How to Use “cue sheet” in a Sentence
The director provided (object: the presenter) with a cue sheet.The sound engineer followed (object: the cue sheet) precisely.We need to create (object: a cue sheet) for the live broadcast.Vocabulary
Collocations
Examples
Examples of “cue sheet” in a Sentence
verb
British English
- The producer will cue the music from the sheet.
- We need to cue sheet the entire programme before rehearsals.
American English
- The director cued the effects using the sheet.
- They decided to cue-sheet the rally stages meticulously.
Usage
Meaning in Context
Business
Rarely used, except in the media production business.
Academic
Used in media studies, film, and theatre courses.
Everyday
Virtually never used.
Technical
Standard term in broadcasting, audio engineering, film/TV production, and theatre stage management.
Watch out
Common Mistakes When Using “cue sheet”
- Confusing 'cue sheet' with 'script' (a script contains dialogue; a cue sheet contains technical or timing instructions).
- Misspelling as 'queue sheet'. 'Cue' is the signal; 'queue' is a line.
FAQ
Frequently Asked Questions
No. A script contains dialogue and narrative action. A cue sheet is a technical document listing the timing and nature of specific events (audio cues, light changes, camera shots) that happen during the performance of a script.
Yes, particularly in film scoring, live theatre pits, and complex contemporary classical performances. The sheet will list musical entries, specific sounds, or synchronisation points with visual media.
In motorsport, especially rallying, it's a document given to the co-driver. It details directions, distances, turns, and hazards for a specific stage, often using a specialised shorthand or 'tulip' diagrams.
Yes, though it's industry jargon. To 'cue-sheet' something means to create a detailed cue sheet for it (e.g., "We need to cue-sheet the entire live event").
A list or script giving instructions or the sequence of events, audio cues, or technical details for a performance or broadcast.
Cue sheet is usually technical/professional in register.
Cue sheet: in British English it is pronounced /ˈkjuː ʃiːt/, and in American English it is pronounced /ˈkju ʃit/. Tap the audio buttons above to hear it.
Phrases
Idioms & Phrases
- “On cue (related conceptually, but not containing the phrase 'cue sheet')”
Learning
Memory Aids
Mnemonic
Imagine a QUEUE of people waiting to perform their part. A CUE SHEET tells each person (or sound, or light) when it's their turn in the QUEUE.
Conceptual Metaphor
A MAP FOR TIME: The cue sheet is a spatial representation (a list) that guides actions through temporal sequence.
Practice
Quiz
In which field would you be LEAST likely to encounter a 'cue sheet'?