Clue

Pronunciation: /kluː/

Definitions of clue

noun a piece of evidence or information used in the detection of a crime or solving of a mystery

Example Sentences

A1 I have no clue where I left my keys.

A2 She gave me a clue about the treasure's location.

B1 The detective found a clue that led to the suspect's arrest.

B2 The missing piece of evidence provided a crucial clue in solving the case.

C1 The subtle clue in the painting hinted at a deeper meaning.

C2 His keen observation skills allowed him to pick up on the smallest clues in the investigation.

Examples of clue in a Sentence

formal The detective carefully examined the clue left at the crime scene.

informal I can't figure out this clue, can you help me?

slang I'm totally lost, I need a clue to solve this puzzle.

figurative Her sudden silence was a clue that something was wrong.

Grammatical Forms of clue

• past tense: clued
• plural: clues
• comparative: clue-er
• superlative: most clue
• present tense: clues
• future tense: will clue
• perfect tense: have clued
• continuous tense: cluing
• singular: clue
• positive degree: clue
• infinitive: to clue
• gerund: cluing
• participle: clued

Origin and Evolution of clue

First Known Use: 1591 year

Language of Origin: Middle English

Story behind the word: The word 'clue' originated from the Middle English word 'clew' which meant a ball of thread or yarn. It was derived from the Old English word 'cleowen' meaning a ball of thread.

Evolution of the word: Over time, the meaning of 'clue' evolved from a ball of thread used to guide one's way to a piece of evidence or information that helps solve a mystery or puzzle.