contain clues

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "contain clues" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used when referring to something that holds or includes hints or pieces of information that may lead to a conclusion or discovery. Example: "The detective examined the scene carefully, believing it might contain clues about the suspect's whereabouts."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Academia

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

It has been argued that a few genomic regions called human accelerated regions (HARs) contain clues to the enhanced changes associated with the evolution of human brains.

Briefings in Functional Genomics

They contain clues.

The Guardian - Opinion

These data contain clues to changes of glycosyl transferase activity that accompany speciation.

Placenta

And the changes in olfaction observed in schizophrenia, researchers believe, may also contain clues to how the disease develops.

The New York Times - Health

'I believe that knife, which still rests at the National Library of Wales, may contain clues to the Whitechapel murders.

The Guardian

Although the diaries may contain clues regarding the disappearance of the three atheists, the final entries appear rather pedestrian.

The New York Times

The main target was computer materials inside the house that could contain clues about future terrorist plots.

The New York Times

Layers of sediment in lakes where herders have watered animals for centuries may contain clues to past numbers of livestock.

Columbia University

It is hoped that his blood may contain clues as to why his body did not succumb to the illness.

Independent

Each scene is packed with activities, like Arthur's classroom, which has desks that contain clues to the characters that sit there.

The New York Times - Arts

After inheriting a set of landscapes painted by her enigmatic grandfather, a woman discovers that the paintings contain clues to a series of unexplained murders.

The New York Times - Books

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "contain clues", ensure the subject is a tangible or intangible entity capable of holding or providing information, such as "documents", "data", or "observations".

Common error

Avoid using "contain clues" when the subject cannot logically possess or reveal information. For instance, instead of saying "The weather contains clues about the future", consider "The weather patterns provide clues about future climate trends."

Linguistic Context

The phrase "contain clues" functions as a verb phrase + noun combination, indicating that something possesses or holds information that can lead to a discovery or understanding. Ludwig confirms its correct and usable status in English.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

59%

Science

20%

Academia

7%

Less common in

Wiki

4%

Formal & Business

0%

Reference

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "contain clues" is a grammatically sound and widely used phrase that signifies something holding information that could lead to a discovery or understanding. As Ludwig confirms, its usage is correct and versatile across various contexts. Predominantly found in News & Media, Science, and Academia, the phrase maintains a neutral register, suitable for both formal and informal communication. Related phrases like "offer insights" or "provide hints" can be used to add nuance or formality. While its usage is broad, ensure the subject logically possesses the capacity to hold and reveal information. By understanding its function and contextual application, you can effectively use "contain clues" in your writing.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

provide hints

Replaces "clues" with "hints", maintaining a similar meaning but with a slightly less formal tone.

offer insights

Changes the verb from "contain" to "offer" and the noun from "clues" to "insights", focusing on the act of providing understanding.

point to solutions

Changes the focus to directing attention toward solutions, emphasizing guidance.

hold keys

Uses a metaphorical substitution, replacing "clues" with "keys" to represent solutions or understandings.

reveal indicators

Focuses on the revealing aspect of the information, using "indicators" as a more formal alternative to "clues".

hint at resolutions

Similar to "suggest possibilities" but specifically referring to the resolution of a problem or mystery.

suggest possibilities

Shifts the focus to the potential outcomes or interpretations suggested by the information.

imply answers

Emphasizes that the information indirectly suggests or hints at answers.

present evidence

Highlights the evidentiary nature of the information, suitable for more formal or legal contexts.

harbor secrets

Introduces an element of mystery, implying hidden or concealed information that can be discovered.

FAQs

How can I rephrase "contain clues" to sound more formal?

For a more formal tone, you can use alternatives such as "offer insights", "provide indications", or "reveal evidence depending on the specific context.

What is a less formal way to say "contain clues"?

In less formal contexts, you could use phrases like "give hints", "suggest something", or "point to".

Is there a difference between saying something "contains clues" and saying it "holds clues"?

The phrases are very similar. "Contains clues" is more common and generally applicable. "Holds clues" might imply a more deliberate or secure keeping of the information, but the difference is subtle. The choice often comes down to stylistic preference.

When is it inappropriate to use the phrase "contain clues"?

It's best to avoid using "contain clues" when the subject is incapable of possessing or conveying information. For example, instead of saying "The feeling contains clues", consider "The feeling suggests underlying anxiety".