Definition & Meaning of "take a cue from somebody or something "

What is the origin of the idiom "take a cue from someone or something" and when to use it?

The idiom "take a cue from someone or something" originates from cue sports, such as billiards or snooker, where a cue is used to strike the ball. In these games, players often observe and follow the actions of others by taking cues, or signals, from their opponents' shots to guide their own strategy and decision-making. Figuratively, the phrase means to draw inspiration, guidance, or instruction from someone or something as a basis for one's own actions or behavior. It signifies the act of paying attention to and learning from the example or advice of others in order to inform one's own choices or actions.