View synonyms for

clue

[ kloo ]

Phonetic (Standard)IPA

noun

anything that serves to guide or direct in the solution of a problem, mystery, etc.:
It is up to Aurora to piece together the clues and solve the murder before she becomes the next victim.
Synonyms: , , , , ,
a phrase or word provided as a hint to help find an answer or response in a crossword puzzle, on a game show, etc.:
The celebrity editor's name was featured as a clue on the long-running quiz show.
an insight into or knowledge about something:
As a kid from the suburbs, Patrick has lived a sheltered life and doesn't have a clue how to survive on his own.
clew ( defs 2, 3, 4, 6 ).

clued, cluing.

to direct or point out by a clue.
to help find (an answer in a puzzle or quiz) by providing a clue:
The four-letter “nose” was clued as “characteristic smell of wine.”
clew ( def 7 ).

1. to provide with useful or reliable information:
  Clue us in on how these forms are to be filled out.
2. to make familiar or aware:
  Has she been clued in about the rules of this office?

clue

/ ��ː /

something that helps to solve a problem or unravel a mystery
not to have a clue
1. to be completely baffled
2. to be completely ignorant or incompetent

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Origin of clue¹

First recorded in 1350–1400; variant spelling of clew

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Origin of clue¹

C15: variant of clew

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Examples have not been reviewed.

The findings could provide vital clues in understanding how climate change is affecting Antarctica today.

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Fame is no doubt a rare gift, but also cruel, with every bread crumb counting as an essential clue.

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“Some kids have no clue what they’re supposed to eat and how much and what gives them more energy. I’m surprised not every team has it. We’re lucky.”

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The only clue about how the election is proceeding is the smoke that emerges twice a day from burning the cardinals' ballot papers.

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BBC News spent a day on board the British royal research ship the Discovery as they searched for clues.

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