tangible clue

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "tangible clue" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used when referring to a physical piece of evidence or information that can be perceived through the senses, often in contexts like investigations or problem-solving. Example: "The detective found a tangible clue at the crime scene that could lead to the suspect's identity."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

2 human-written examples

One day, as he cased the company's building, he found his first tangible clue: scraps of fake Equal boxes in a Dumpster.

The New York Times

Researchers have now identified the first tangible clue in the mystery a relatively new virus.Colony collapse disorder became widespread in America in the winter of 2006-07, when about a quarter of the nation's beekeepers were affected, each losing between 30% and 90% of their winged workers.

The Economist

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

57 human-written examples

Might history have offered more tangible clues as to how we might build a better future?

The Guardian - Books

For much of Down Will Go the murder investigation trundles on in the manner of the opening trio of episodes, revealing telling details about the extent of Vinci's corruption, but few tangible clues as to who killed Ben Caspere.

The Guardian - TV & Radio

Certainly, anyone who watches the endless array of crime shows on television could spin out a host of scenarios from one of the few tangible clues -- the death card, with "Policeman, I am God" written on it.

The New York Times

"It is inappropriate to comment about this card," said Police Chief Charles A. Moose, his fury about the disclosure virtually confirming what a crucial piece of evidence the police now have in what had been a week-long investigation with few tangible clues.

The New York Times

People were willing to look for something random that explicitly has no value, and at the same time there was something else on your phone asking you to find someone who was completely real, giving you tangible clues like license plate numbers.

Vice

Without any other clues as to what types of tangible gifts you might enjoy, say via a registry, some guests may have put off sending a gift.

The New York Times

Clue to the latter two: At the meeting, Buffett warned that banks' "return on tangible equity was 20%-plus and unprecedented".

Forbes

Tangible support.

The Guardian

Something tangible.

The Guardian

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "tangible clue", ensure the context clearly establishes that the clue is physical or concrete, not abstract or speculative. This adds precision to your writing.

Common error

Avoid using "tangible clue" when referring to purely theoretical or abstract hints. A tangible clue should be something that can be physically examined or directly perceived.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "tangible clue" functions as a noun phrase, where "tangible" modifies "clue". It describes a specific type of clue that is concrete and perceivable through the senses, offering a more direct and reliable form of evidence. Ludwig examples confirm its use in investigative and problem-solving contexts.

Expression frequency: Rare

Frequent in

News & Media

100%

Less common in

Science

0%

Formal & Business

0%

Academia

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The phrase "tangible clue" is a grammatically sound and usable expression, predominantly found in News & Media contexts, as noted by Ludwig. It signifies a concrete, physically perceivable piece of evidence, distinguishing it from abstract or speculative leads. Alternatives like "concrete evidence" or "physical evidence" can be used depending on the desired nuance. As Ludwig AI confirms, "tangible clue" is used to highlight direct and reliable evidence in investigations or problem-solving scenarios.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

concrete evidence

Focuses on the solid and factual nature of the evidence.

physical evidence

Highlights the material aspect of the clue.

palpable indication

Emphasizes the clear and obvious nature of the sign.

definitive lead

Stresses the conclusiveness and direction provided by the clue.

substantial hint

Underscores the significance and weight of the hint.

solid indicator

Implies reliability and stability in the indication.

unequivocal sign

Focuses on the unambiguous nature of the sign.

observable fact

Highlights the empirical and verifiable nature of the fact.

visible sign

Highlights that the sign is capable of being seen.

actual proof

Stresses the real and verifiable nature of the proof.

FAQs

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

You can use "tangible clue" to describe a physical piece of evidence that helps solve a mystery or problem. For example, "The detective found a "tangible clue" at the crime scene that led to the suspect."

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

Alternatives include "concrete evidence", "physical evidence", or "definitive lead", depending on the specific context and nuance you want to convey.

What distinguishes a "tangible clue" from an abstract one?

A "tangible clue" is physical and can be directly observed or touched, whereas an abstract clue is an idea, inference, or piece of information that lacks a physical form.

Is it redundant to say "physical tangible clue"?

Yes, it can be redundant. Since "tangible" already implies something that can be perceived through touch or is physical, adding "physical" before it might be unnecessary unless you're emphasizing the physicality for clarity.