Clue: Definition, Usage, and Common Examples

Meaning 1：a hint or evidence (clue)

clue 🔊

/kluː/

A piece of information that helps you solve a mystery or a difficult problem.

Clue definition illustrated by detective analyzing evidence with magnifying glass on map

a hint or evidence 🔊

➕

/ə hɪnt ɔːr ˈɛvɪdəns/

A small piece of information or evidence that assists in solving a mystery or difficult problem.

📁 Category：Culture & History 🔖 Level：beginner

📘 Details & Usage

📖 Root Explanation

Derived from Middle English 'clew', meaning a ball of thread, alluding to guiding threads in puzzles.

💡 Mnemonic

CLUE: Connect Leads to Unravel Enigmas, like a thread guiding through a maze.

📖 Example

The detective carefully examined the single fingerprint left on the glass; it was the only clue to the visitor's identity. 🔊 The detective meticulously inspected the sole fingerprint on the glass; it served as the only clue to identify the visitor.

🔗 Collocations

clue in – to inform or give information to someone

not have a clue – to have no knowledge or understanding about something

follow the clues – to use clues to solve a mystery

🔄 Synonyms

hint (n.) – a slight or indirect indication or suggestion

indication (n.) – a sign or piece of information that points to something

lead (n.) – a piece of information that could help in an investigation

🚫 Antonyms

obscurity (n.) – the state of being unknown or unclear

confusion (n.) – lack of understanding or uncertainty

🌱 Derivatives

clueless (adj.) – lacking knowledge or awareness; uninformed

📖 Cultural Story

The word 'clue' originates from 'clew', a ball of thread. In Greek myth, Theseus used a clew to navigate the Labyrinth, making it a metaphor for guiding information in mysteries.