CQ in Morse Code

CQ in Morse code is -.-. –.- — general call meaning seeking any station. Audio, usage, and mistakes.

Direct answer: CQ in Morse is -.-. --.- — a general call meaning “seeking you” / calling any station.

-.-. --.-

What CQ Means in Morse

CQ is not a secret code word — it is the letters C and Q sent with normal letter spacing: -.-. --.-. Operators use CQ to invite any station to answer. A typical call is CQ CQ DE [callsign].

Related: abbreviations hub · 73 · prosigns.

How to Use CQ

General Call

Send CQ when you want any station to respond.

Identify

Follow with DE and your callsign so responders know who is calling.

Listen

Leave space after the call — CQ without listening is poor practice.

Common Mistakes / Lookalikes

CQ mistakes are usually spacing or operating procedure — not the letter patterns.

CQ vs C Q Mashed

CQ uses a normal letter gap: -.-. --.-, not one fused character.

CQ vs Prosigns

CQ is spelled. Prosigns like AR/SK are continuous — see the prosigns page.

Calling Forever

Repeat CQ reasonably, then listen. Endless CQ without ID frustrates the band.

Frequently Asked Questions

CQ is -.-. --.- — letters C then Q.