some clues

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "some clues" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used when referring to hints or pieces of information that may help in solving a problem or understanding a situation. Example: "The detective found some clues that led him closer to solving the mystery."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Academia

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

But I can offer some clues.

HuffPost

Their occupations provide some clues.

The New York Times

Kadima's collapse offers some clues.

The New York Times

But there are some clues.

The New York Times

Some clues lead nowhere.

The Guardian - Books

History provides some clues.

The New York Times

There are some clues.

The Guardian

There are some clues here.

The Guardian - Sport

There might be some clues!

The Guardian - TV & Radio

But there were some clues.

The Guardian

But cross-national surveys offer some clues.

The New York Times

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "some clues" when you want to suggest that there are hints available, but not necessarily a complete solution. It implies a starting point for investigation or understanding.

Common error

Avoid presenting "some clues" as conclusive evidence. This phrase should indicate the beginning of an inquiry, not the end. Be mindful to not lead the reader to believe that the 'clues' are more important than they are.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "some clues" functions as a noun phrase that typically serves as the object of a verb or preposition. It indicates that there are hints or pieces of information available that may help in solving a problem or understanding a situation. As Ludwig AI confirms, the phrase is grammatically correct.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

77%

Science

13%

Academia

8%

Less common in

Formal & Business

2%

Reference

0%

Social Media

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The phrase "some clues" is a grammatically sound and frequently used expression, particularly in News & Media. As Ludwig AI confirms, it is appropriate for indicating the presence of partial information that may guide further inquiry. When writing, use "some clues" to suggest hints are available but without overstating their decisiveness. Alternatives such as "a few hints" or "several indications" can add nuance depending on the context. Overall, "some clues" effectively serves to introduce elements of a puzzle or mystery, prompting exploration and investigation.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

a few hints

This alternative is less formal and suggests a smaller number of clues.

several indications

This alternative is more formal and emphasizes the pointing-to aspect of the clues.

a number of leads

This alternative implies a direction or path to follow based on the clues.

certain suggestions

This alternative implies that the clues provided are credible enough to make some specific point.

slight intimations

This alternative suggests that the clues are subtle and indirect.

preliminary evidence

This alternative positions the clues as initial findings that could lead to further investigation.

possible pointers

This alternative emphasizes the guiding or directing nature of the clues.

potential insights

This alternative focus on the understanding that the clues can unlock.

incipient signs

This alternative highlights that the clues are just beginning to emerge or become apparent.

subtle indicators

This alternative emphasizes the understated and not immediately obvious nature of the clues.

FAQs

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

You can use "some clues" to suggest there is partial information available, as in, "The detective found "some clues" at the crime scene" or "History provides "some clues" about the future."

What are some synonyms for "some clues"?

Alternatives to "some clues" include phrases like "a few hints", "several indications", or "a number of leads". The best choice depends on the specific context.

Is it better to say "some clues" or "a few clues"?

Both "some clues" and "a few clues" are grammatically correct and can be used interchangeably in many situations. "Some clues" might suggest a slightly larger quantity, but the difference is minimal. Consider other options like "several indications" if greater emphasis on clues amount is needed.

When is it inappropriate to use the phrase "some clues"?

Avoid using "some clues" when you have complete or definitive evidence. In such cases, phrases like "conclusive evidence" or "irrefutable proof" would be more appropriate. Remember, "some clues" implies partial information and that further investigation is needed, so consider using synonyms if clues are enough to solve a problem.