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clue

[kluː]

clue Definition

  • 1a piece of evidence or information used in the detection of a crime or solving of a mystery
  • 2a fact or idea that helps to solve a problem or understand a situation

Using clue: Examples

Take a moment to familiarize yourself with how "clue" can be used in various situations through the following examples!

  • Example

    The detective found a clue at the crime scene.

  • Example

    I don't have any clue how to solve this math problem.

  • Example

    The missing key was the only clue to the mystery.

  • Example

    Her tone of voice gave me a clue about how she was feeling.

clue Synonyms and Antonyms

Synonyms for clue

Antonyms for clue

Idioms Using clue

  • to have no knowledge or understanding of something

    Example

    I don't have a clue how to fix this computer.

  • to learn from or be influenced by someone or something

    Example

    We can take a clue from their success and apply it to our own business.

  • follow the clues

    to investigate or search for information in order to solve a problem or mystery

    Example

    The detective followed the clues to find the missing person.

Phrases with clue

  • to inform or enlighten someone about something

    Example

    Can you clue me in on what's going on?

  • clue up

    to become informed or knowledgeable about something

    Example

    I need to clue up on the latest developments before the meeting.

  • having no knowledge, understanding, or ability

    Example

    He's completely clueless about how to fix the car.

Origins of clue

originated from the word 'clew' meaning a ball of thread or yarn used to guide someone through a maze

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Summary: clue in Brief

The term 'clue' [kluː] refers to a piece of evidence or information used to solve a mystery or problem. It can be a physical object or an idea, as in 'I don't have any clue how to solve this math problem.' 'Clue' has idiomatic uses like 'not have a clue,' meaning to have no knowledge, and 'follow the clues,' meaning to investigate or search for information. Other phrases include 'clue in' and 'clue up,' which respectively mean to inform or become knowledgeable about something.

How do native speakers use this expression?