critical clue

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "critical clue" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used when referring to an important piece of information that helps solve a problem or mystery. Example: "The detective found a critical clue that led to the arrest of the suspect."

✓ Grammatically correct

Science

News & Media

Encyclopedias

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

21 human-written examples

This information, a critical clue for females, is a measure of how good the habitat is for depositing eggs.

Encyclopedia Britannica

The difference between the two populations, called Populations I and II, was a critical clue to the evolution of galaxies.

Encyclopedia Britannica

On and on the doctors asked questions in different ways in hopes that a nuance would evoke a critical clue.

The New York Times - Science

He supplied one critical clue, however: the use of lactic acid is crucial in the fermentation process because it lowers the pH and imparts a unique tanginess.

The New York Times - Magazine

The first half of the sentence is obvious — Albert only knows the month, but not the day — but the second half is the first critical clue.

The New York Times - Science

A critical clue may be revealed when an investigator stubs a toe on a telltale shard, but more likely will come from methodical analysis of radar traces of falling wreckage, the pattern of wreckage and other evidence.

The New York Times

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

39 human-written examples

But the association gave the researchers some critical clues.

Stanford University

The answers could provide critical clues for identifying a charred body, even a limb.

The New York Times

The unexploded bomb found on West 27th Street, however, held critical clues.

The New York Times

Monthly readings of atmospheric levels of carbon dioxide at the Mauna Loa Observatory in Hawaii, begun in 1958, would eventually provide critical clues about the changing global climate.

Yale University

The many errors that follow are both predictable and potentially catastrophic in overlooking critical clues to diagnosis, unnecessary testing and exposure to radiation.

The New York Times

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "critical clue", ensure the context clearly establishes what the clue is critical to. Specify the problem, mystery, or situation that the clue helps resolve to maximize clarity.

Common error

Avoid using "critical clue" for minor or insignificant details. Reserve it for truly pivotal pieces of information that significantly advance understanding or problem-solving. A seemingly small detail might be a "critical clue", but use caution when assessing and describing the implication.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "critical clue" functions primarily as a noun phrase, typically serving as the subject or object of a sentence. It identifies a specific piece of information deemed essential. As Ludwig showcases, the phrase commonly introduces pivotal information in a narrative or investigation.

Expression frequency: Common

Frequent in

News & Media

30%

Science

30%

Academia

15%

Less common in

Encyclopedias

10%

Formal & Business

5%

Reference

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The phrase "critical clue" serves as a noun phrase that highlights essential information. As Ludwig AI confirms, it is grammatically sound and adaptable across different writing styles. "Critical clue" is commonly found in scientific and news contexts, indicating its widespread use and understanding. When using the phrase, emphasize its connection to a problem or solution. Consider alternatives like "key insight" or "vital information" for nuanced meaning. Ultimately, "critical clue" is a versatile phrase for conveying importance, but use it judiciously to avoid overstating the significance of a minor detail.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

key insight

Emphasizes the understanding gained rather than the piece of information itself.

vital information

Highlights the importance of the information in a general sense.

essential element

Focuses on the necessity of the clue as part of a larger whole.

important lead

Specifically suggests a path for further investigation.

significant discovery

Highlights the finding of the clue rather than its inherent nature.

pivotal detail

Emphasizes the turning point or decisive nature of the clue.

crucial piece of evidence

More formal and often used in legal or investigative contexts.

decisive factor

Indicates the clue directly influences the outcome or decision.

revealing sign

Suggests the clue uncovers something previously hidden.

telling indication

Points towards a particular conclusion or understanding.

FAQs

How can I use "critical clue" in a sentence?

You can use "critical clue" to describe an important piece of information that helps solve a problem or mystery. For example, "The detective found a "critical clue" that led to the arrest of the suspect."

What are some alternatives to saying "critical clue"?

Alternatives include "key insight", "vital information", or "essential element depending on the context".

Which is correct, "critical clue" or "crucial clue"?

Both "critical clue" and "crucial clue" are correct and often interchangeable. They both emphasize the importance of the clue, with "critical" perhaps implying a slightly more decisive role.

What's the difference between a "critical clue" and an "important clue"?

While both suggest significance, a "critical clue" implies the information is essential and potentially game-changing, whereas an "important clue" simply indicates it is of notable value.