provide a clue

USAGE SUMMARY

"provide a clue" is a perfectly acceptable phrase to use in written English and can mean both to offer a hint or indication as to something or to give someone a piece of information that will help them to reach a conclusion or solve a mystery.
For example: Let us see if we can identify the mysterious creature. I will provide a clue: it has four legs, a tail and loves to bark.

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Encyclopedias

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

Peanuts provide a clue.

The Economist

The stone blades may provide a clue.

The New York Times - Science

But the contradictions provide a clue.

The Economist

The television ratings may provide a clue.

The New York Times

The results in Massachusetts on Tuesday should provide a clue.

The New York Times

It may, indeed, provide a clue to what happened.

Encyclopedia Britannica

That may provide a clue to her detention.

The New York Times

His views on the Sept. 11 terror attacks provide a clue.

The New York Times - Magazine

Meanwhile, Caruso...s m.o. in winning over Montecito residents might provide a clue to his intentions.

The New Yorker

Ms. Garrison's poetry reviews for The New Yorker provide a clue to her taste.

The New York Times

"Anything that can provide a clue, such as a piece of jewelry or a valise".

The New York Times

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "provide a clue", ensure the clue is relevant and helps the audience understand or solve a problem. A good clue is specific enough to be helpful, but not so obvious that it gives away the answer immediately.

Common error

Avoid providing clues that are too general or ambiguous, as they can confuse the audience and hinder their understanding. Instead, focus on offering specific details or hints that guide them towards the correct conclusion.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "provide a clue" functions as a verb phrase, indicating the action of offering a hint or piece of information. It serves to suggest a possible solution or direction without explicitly revealing it. Ludwig AI confirms its widespread usage in various contexts.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

40%

Science

35%

Encyclopedias

10%

Less common in

Formal & Business

5%

Reference

5%

Social Media

5%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "provide a clue" is a widely used and grammatically sound verb phrase that suggests offering a hint or piece of information to aid understanding or problem-solving. Ludwig AI showcases its usage across diverse fields such as news, science, and encyclopedias. While maintaining a neutral register, the phrase effectively communicates the intention to guide without explicitly revealing the answer. When crafting content, ensure clues are relevant and avoid vagueness to maximize clarity and engagement.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

give a hint

A more direct and common way of saying "provide a clue".

drop a hint

Implies a subtle and indirect way of providing information.

supply a lead

Highlights the act of offering a piece of information that guides further investigation.

shed light on

Metaphorically means to clarify or reveal something.

furnish an indication

A more formal way to express giving a sign or signal.

present a sign

Focuses on showing something that indicates a fact or quality.

offer an inkling

Emphasizes a slight or vague suggestion rather than a direct hint.

offer a key

Suggests providing something essential for understanding or solving a problem.

offer a suggestion

Focuses on providing a possible answer or direction.

give insight into

Emphasizes offering a deeper understanding of something.

FAQs

What does it mean to "provide a clue"?

To "provide a clue" means to offer a hint or piece of information that helps someone solve a problem, understand a situation, or find an answer. It's about giving a suggestive detail rather than a direct solution.

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

You might say, "The detective hoped the evidence would "provide a clue" to the killer's identity" or "The teacher decided to "provide a clue" to help the students solve the riddle".

What are some alternatives to "provide a clue"?

You can use alternatives like "give a hint", "offer an inkling", or "supply a lead", depending on the context.

Is it better to "provide a clue" or "give the answer"?

Whether to "provide a clue" or "give the answer" depends on the situation. Providing a clue encourages problem-solving and critical thinking, while giving the answer offers immediate clarity but may not promote deeper understanding.