provides a hint

USAGE SUMMARY

"provides a hint" is correct and usable in written English.
You can use it whenever you want to talk about a clue or clue-like information that can lead to figuring something out. For example, "The teacher provides a hint that helps the students solve the problem."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

45 human-written examples

Her @AmbassadorPower Twitter account provides a hint of how she sees herself.

The New York Times

Indeed, the historical record provides a hint that something was afoot around this time.

The Economist

70‑Across provides a hint as to where to find it.

The New York Times

The graffiti scribbled along one wall that reads "Vecchio Cuore Granata" provides a hint of the building site's significance.

The Guardian - Sport

One, from Edmond Fallot, has seeds and is made with wine; Pommery Moutarde Royale provides a hint of Cognac.

The New York Times

It also provides a hint as to why they have quietly become one of the best receiving corps in the N.F.L.

The New York Times - Sports

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

11 human-written examples

Anchovies provide a hint of ocean air, and juniper berries a marshy hum.

The New York Times - Magazine

Coconut chips and shelled pistachios provide a hint of whimsy, pumpkinseeds a leathery crunch.

The New York Times - Magazine

Mr. Shapiro declined to name his first act, though his music-industry credentials may provide a hint.

The New York Times - Arts

The growing crop of new apartment blocks may provide a hint of the future.

The New York Times

Vonn said yes, but never provided a hint for how fabulously she does it.

The New York Times - Sports

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "provides a hint", ensure the context clearly indicates what the hint is pointing towards. For example, "The detective's findings provide a hint about the suspect's motive."

Common error

Avoid overstating the significance of a hint. A hint is not definitive proof; it's merely a suggestion or indication. Don't present a hint as a conclusive answer or fact.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "provides a hint" functions as a linking verb phrase, connecting a subject (something offering information) to a noun phrase (the hint itself). According to Ludwig AI, this phrase is considered correct and appropriate for written English.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

Science

41%

News & Media

40%

Wiki

4%

Less common in

Formal & Business

0%

Encyclopedias

0%

Reference

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "provides a hint" is a grammatically sound and frequently used phrase that effectively conveys the idea of offering a clue or suggestion. Ludwig AI confirms its correctness and usability in written English. The phrase is versatile, appearing in both scientific and news contexts, and its neutral register makes it suitable for various types of communication. When using this phrase, remember that a hint is not a definitive answer but rather an indication that requires further exploration. Consider alternatives like "offers a clue" or "gives an indication" to add nuance to your writing.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

offers a clue

This alternative directly replaces "provides" with "offers" and "hint" with "clue", maintaining the core meaning.

offers a suggestion

Using "suggestion" instead of "hint" makes the phrase slightly more direct.

gives an indication

This phrase uses "gives" instead of "provides" and "indication" to replace "hint", suggesting a slightly stronger clue.

points to

This is a more concise way of saying that something directs attention to something else.

suggests a possibility

This alternative shifts the focus to the potential outcome or implication of the hint.

signals a clue

Replaces provide with signal which means the same.

implies something

This phrase suggests that the hint is more subtle and requires interpretation.

intimates

This word means suggests or hints which renders the usage as a synonym.

leverages a clue

Changes provides to leverages, to reuse clue instead of hint

alludes

This option changes the structure but conserves the message.

FAQs

How can I use "provides a hint" in a sentence?

You can use "provides a hint" to indicate that something offers a clue or suggestion. For example, "The evidence "provides a hint" about the location of the missing artifact."

What are some alternatives to the phrase "provides a hint"?

Alternatives to "provides a hint" include "offers a clue", "gives an indication", and "suggests a possibility". The best choice depends on the specific context.

Is it appropriate to use "provides a hint" in formal writing?

Yes, "provides a hint" is suitable for both formal and informal writing. It's a relatively neutral phrase that doesn't carry any strong connotations.

What's the difference between "provides a hint" and "offers a solution"?

"Provides a hint" suggests a clue or indication that might lead to a solution, while "offers a solution" directly presents a resolution to a problem. A "hint" requires further investigation, whereas a solution is complete.