follow clues

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "follow clues" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used when describing the action of seeking information or guidance by examining hints or signs that lead to a conclusion or solution. Example: "In the mystery novel, the detective had to follow clues to uncover the truth behind the crime."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Travel

Children's books

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

25 human-written examples

"You have to follow clues and engage intellectually.

The Guardian - Film

Reunited with the notebook, they begin to follow clues inside, trying to find their wayward father.

The Guardian

Together they spar, follow clues on ancient maps and are chased by villains from Casablanca to the Serengeti.

The New York Times - Arts

Kids follow clues to find eggs aboard the tall ship Peking, at South Street Seaport Museum, Pier 16, Lower Manhattan.

The New York Times - Arts

You might have to segregate particular regions, or join dots, or even follow clues scrawled into the island itself before you settle on the correct solution.

The New Yorker

Children love to hunt for the giant's stone heart etched in the pathway, follow clues to the castle turrets and stand in the firing line of bygone battles.

The Guardian - Travel

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

35 human-written examples

In a lightning round on pop culture, the triplets followed clues to name famous duos.

The New York Times

Following clues is always fun but what if there's nothing very exciting to detect?

The Guardian

Following clues from one location to the next, he discovers that everywhere Arlen has stayed he has left behind wreckage and bad feelings.

The New York Times

Over the past 18 months Mr Beaton has followed clues from many countries, travelling as far as Argentina in pursuit of a desirable garment.

The Guardian - Lifestyle

Mr. Wright was arrested on Sept. 28 after a government task force set up to find fugitives from New York and New Jersey followed clues that pointed to Portugal.

The New York Times

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "follow clues" in writing, ensure that the clues are clearly defined within the context. This helps the reader understand what is being pursued and how it contributes to the overall narrative or argument.

Common error

Avoid assuming that your audience will automatically grasp the significance of vague or implied clues. Always provide enough context to ensure the clues are understandable and their importance is clear.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "follow clues" functions primarily as a verb phrase, where "follow" is the main verb and "clues" is the direct object. Ludwig examples show it describing actions in investigative or exploratory contexts. The phrase describes the action of using information found to progress.

Expression frequency: Common

Frequent in

News & Media

52%

Travel

12%

Wiki

12%

Less common in

Science

8%

Formal & Business

0%

Encyclopedias

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The phrase "follow clues" is a commonly used verb phrase that describes the action of using available information to solve a problem or uncover a mystery. Ludwig's analysis, confirmed by the AI, indicates that it is grammatically correct and frequently appears in News & Media. When incorporating this phrase into your writing, ensure that the context clearly defines the clues being referenced and their significance to the overall narrative. While it can be used in formal settings, it is primarily suited for neutral and informal contexts. Consider alternatives like "pursue leads" or "investigate hints" to add nuance to your writing.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

pursue leads

Focuses more on actively chasing or investigating potential information sources.

investigate hints

Emphasizes a more formal or systematic approach to examining subtle signs.

track down evidence

Highlights the effort to find and gather proof or support for a claim.

decipher indications

Suggests a process of interpreting or understanding ambiguous signals.

analyze signals

Implies a careful examination of various types of data to gain insight.

decode messages

Centers on uncovering the meaning of encoded or cryptic information.

explore avenues

Highlights the action of systematically investigating different possibilities or sources.

unravel mysteries

Focuses on solving puzzling or unexplained events through detailed examination.

hunt for signs

Emphasizes the active search for indications or omens.

seek answers

Broadly refers to the quest for solutions or explanations through any means.

FAQs

How can I use "follow clues" in a sentence?

You can use "follow clues" to describe the process of solving a mystery, conducting an investigation, or even understanding a complex topic. For example, "Detectives often "follow clues" to solve crimes."

What are some alternatives to "follow clues"?

Depending on the context, you could use alternatives like "pursue leads", "investigate hints", or "track down evidence".

Is it better to say "following clues" or "follow clues"?

The choice between "following clues" and "follow clues" depends on the grammatical structure of your sentence. "Following clues" is a gerund phrase and can act as a noun, while "follow clues" is a verb phrase typically used in imperative or infinitive constructions.

What's the difference between "follow clues" and "follow leads"?

While both phrases involve investigation, "follow leads" typically refers to pursuing information or guidance, while ""follow clues"" suggests piecing together a puzzle or mystery from hints or indications.