particular clue

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "particular clue" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used when referring to a specific hint or piece of information that is relevant to a situation or problem. Example: "The detective found a particular clue that led him to solve the case."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Wiki

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

6 human-written examples

Each letter of the alphabet is missing from a particular clue, though in four cases it is missing twice and in one case four times.

The Guardian

This would have been a really admirable debut except for one particular clue that I thought was a bit insensitive given the economic downturn.

The New York Times

I find having two critics extremely useful as coming from two different viewpoints: I have even had one saying he really loved a particular clue and the other saying he hated it!

The Guardian

Level 4: Googleplex, California "Can you score 10^(10^100) points?" Following this particular clue leads to the so-called Googleplex in California, corporate headquarters of the tech giant.

The Guardian

The text of his speech, however, gave no particular clue as to what he meant, other than a comment that "I naturally wish that this conflict finds a swift conclusion with the minimum possible number of casualties".

The New York Times

The answer to that particular clue?

Huffington Post

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

52 human-written examples

But for Bergman, the finding is so unexpected that he's keen to see more evidence, in particular a clue to the "magic factor" that might explain the health benefit.

Science Magazine

Then they use local contacts and pour over Google maps and aerial photographs looking for particular geographical clues like sinkholes, disappearing and reappearing creeks or rivers, or even a dark spot that could be an opening.

Vice

These studies related to the abnormal vein patterning caused by mutation of particular genes provide some clue as to how Kranz anatomy is regulated and suggest involvement of multiple pathways in development of the Kranz pattern.

Rice

I have always been fascinated by the medieval notion that the visual characteristics of a particular foodstuff are a clue to its medicinal properties.

Huffington Post

The result of a SAGE analysis, in particular, provides a substantial clue for the estimation of the 3′ terminal of each transcript.

DNA Research

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When crafting mysteries or puzzles, ensure that the "particular clue" stands out subtly, guiding the audience without revealing the solution too early.

Common error

Avoid making the "particular clue" too obvious or too obscure. A well-placed clue should intrigue and guide, not confuse or solve the mystery outright.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "particular clue" functions primarily as a noun phrase, where "particular" modifies the noun "clue". It identifies a specific hint or piece of information among many, drawing attention to its significance. As stated by Ludwig AI, the phrase is usable in written English.

Expression frequency: Uncommon

Frequent in

News & Media

40%

Science

30%

Wiki

10%

Less common in

Formal & Business

5%

Academia

5%

Encyclopedias

5%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "particular clue" is a grammatically sound and usable phrase referring to a specific hint or piece of information. Ludwig AI confirms its validity in written English. Its function is to emphasize a notable detail, and it appears most frequently in news, media, and scientific contexts. While not overly common, it is a clear and effective way to highlight a significant clue. Related phrases include "specific hint" and "distinct piece of evidence", which offer similar meanings while providing variety in expression.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

specific hint

Focuses on the directness and unambiguity of the clue.

distinct piece of evidence

Emphasizes the evidentiary nature and uniqueness of the clue.

precise indication

Highlights the exactness and suggestive nature of the clue.

key piece of information

Underscores the importance and informational value of the clue.

notable lead

Stresses the prominence and guiding function of the clue.

relevant insight

Highlights the pertinence and understanding gained from the clue.

significant pointer

Emphasizes the importance and directional nature of the clue.

special sign

Focuses on the uniqueness and indicative character of the clue.

certain suggestion

Highlights the assuredness and prompting effect of the clue.

individual signal

Emphasizes the distinctiveness and signaling function of the clue.

FAQs

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

You can use "particular clue" to refer to a specific piece of information that helps solve a problem or mystery. For example, "The detective found a "particular clue" that led to the suspect".

What's a good alternative to "particular clue"?

Alternatives include "specific hint", "distinct piece of evidence", or "key piece of information", depending on the context.

Is there a difference between "particular clue" and "general clue"?

"Particular clue" refers to a specific, noteworthy hint, while "general clue" refers to a vague or less significant piece of information. The former is more focused and impactful.

What makes a clue "particular"?

A clue is "particular" when it is unique, specific, and directly relevant to the situation at hand, often standing out from other less significant details.