precise clue

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "precise clue" is correct and usable in written English.
You can use it when referring to a specific hint or piece of information that is clear and exact, often in contexts like problem-solving or investigations. Example: "The detective found a precise clue that led them to the suspect's whereabouts."

✓ Grammatically correct

Science

News & Media

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

1 human-written examples

Stangneth reflects: "There could hardly have been a more precise clue as to where Eichmann was... the employees of the German intelligence service should at least have been able to manage a job one might assign to a newspaper intern".

Independent

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

59 human-written examples

For example, existing knowledge about Lactococcus lactis primary metabolism [ 30- 32, 40] provides precise clues about which interactions are reasonable.

BMC Systems Biology

Our survey participants were not given precise clues permitting them to distinguish between the two concepts and no particular skin territory of interest was suggested.

Clinical, Cosmetic and Investigational Dermatology

Identification of the genes related to the very early stage of fulminant hepatitis development may provide precise clues for early diagnosis.

BMC Genomics

He writes smart, precise, fair clues in a time-honoured style, as befits the author of the Chambers Crossword Manual.

The Guardian

This oddly precise rate is a clue to the source of David's otherwise inexplicable agonies.

The New York Times - Books

But despite these clues the precise location of the plane's wreckage underwater is not known.

The Guardian

However, in some highly sophisticated attacks, hackers' precise methods have provided clues to their identity.

BBC

The molecular formula deduced from the elemental analysis gave no clue about the precise molecular structure.

Environmental Sciences Europe

Officers are today examining its literature for clues to the precise ideology that may have inspired the London bombs.

The Guardian

Though the discovery does not provide any breakthrough clues on the precise origin of the lethal dose of the bacteria, it bolsters the dominant theory of investigators that anthrax-contaminated mail processed in the postal center in Hamilton, N.J., may have played a role in the Connecticut woman's death.

The New York Times

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "precise clue", ensure the context clearly establishes what makes the clue 'precise'. Specify the exactness or accuracy the clue provides to enhance clarity.

Common error

Avoid using "precise clue" when the information is merely suggestive or indicative rather than definitively accurate. Overstating precision can mislead the reader.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "precise clue" functions as a noun phrase where the adjective 'precise' modifies the noun 'clue'. According to Ludwig AI, the phrase is usable in written English. It indicates a specific hint or information that is clear and exact, often in problem-solving or investigations.

Expression frequency: Uncommon

Frequent in

Science

55%

News & Media

35%

Formal & Business

10%

Less common in

Encyclopedias

0%

Wiki

0%

Social Media

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, the phrase "precise clue" is a grammatically correct and usable term that combines an adjective and a noun to describe a hint or piece of information characterized by clarity and accuracy. Ludwig AI confirms its validity. It is most frequently used in scientific and news contexts, indicating information that is not only a clue but also exact and reliable. For alternative phrasings, consider "exact hint" or "accurate indication". When employing this phrase, ensure the context establishes what makes the clue notably precise to prevent potential misinterpretations. Overall, "precise clue" serves as a valuable tool in contexts requiring clear and accurate information.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

exact hint

Changes the noun from "clue" to "hint" while maintaining the adjective's meaning.

accurate indication

Replaces both words with synonyms that emphasize correctness and signposting.

clear lead

Substitutes "precise" with "clear" and "clue" with "lead", focusing on the clarity of the hint.

specific evidence

Uses more formal terms emphasizing the evidence aspect of the clue.

definitive insight

Emphasizes the conclusive nature of the clue, portraying it as a key insight.

unmistakable sign

Focuses on the obviousness and clarity of the clue.

certain pointer

Highlights the directional aspect of the clue, suggesting it guides towards a solution.

explicit signal

Replaces "clue" with "signal" highlighting the clear and unambiguous communication.

detailed indicator

Emphasizes the detailed nature of the clue, providing comprehensive information.

telling fact

Shortens the phrase to a concise, impactful statement emphasizing the revelatory nature of the clue.

FAQs

How can I effectively use "precise clue" in a sentence?

Use "precise clue" when referring to a specific piece of information that offers a clear and accurate indication, often in problem-solving or investigative contexts. For example, "The detective found a "precise clue" that led them to the suspect's whereabouts."

What are some alternatives to saying "precise clue"?

You can use alternatives like "exact hint", "accurate indication", or "clear lead" depending on the context.

Is it redundant to use "very precise clue"?

While not grammatically incorrect, "very precise clue" can be somewhat redundant. The term "precise" already implies a high degree of accuracy, so using just "precise clue" is usually sufficient. If you want to emphasize it further, consider alternatives like "incredibly telling fact".

In what context is "precise clue" most appropriate?

"Precise clue" is most appropriate in contexts where accuracy and clarity are paramount, such as scientific research, criminal investigations, or technical analyses. It suggests that the clue offers a clear, unambiguous, and accurate insight, unlike a vague or misleading "hint".