English Reference
Idiom idiom

clue stick


A metaphorical stick used to beat information or understanding into a slow learner.

Meaning adapted from Wiktionary, available under CC BY-SA 4.0.


SIMPLE

He needs a clue stick to understand the basic rules.

CONTEXTUAL

After explaining the project three times, I felt like I needed a clue stick to help him understand.

COMPLEX

The manager grew so frustrated with the repeated errors that he jokingly suggested the employee required a metaphorical clue stick to grasp the obvious.


From clue + stick.


Related idioms8entries
  1. 01

    beat off with a stick

    To reject (a person making an unwanted amorous approach).

  2. 02

    beat with the ugly stick

    Used to describe someone who is particularly ugly or unattractive.

  3. 03

    carrot and stick

    The simultaneous rewarding of good behavior and punishing of bad behavior.

  4. 04

    get a clue

    To become aware of the obvious reality of a situation, often used as a command to indicate frustration

  5. 05

    get on the stick

    To get started; to begin working; to become active.

  6. 06

    get stuck in

    To dedicate a large amount of effort towards.

  7. 07

    hit with the stupid stick

    Used to describe someone who is stupid or unintelligent.

  8. 08

    holy crap on a stick

    Emphatic form of holy crap.

Last updated August 10, 2026