clue

B1 · Intermediate Uncountable noun Informal

n. knowledge or understanding of a situation.

n. insight or understanding regarding a specific subject or situation; frequently used in the negative to indicate total ignorance.

“I don't have a clue how to fix this computer, so I'll call a professional.”

“Despite having sat through the entire lecture, most of the students admitted they didn't have a clue about the complex theories discussed.”

B1 · Intermediate Countable noun

n. a piece of information that helps you find the answer in a game or a crossword.

n. a word, phrase, or sentence that points to the solution of a puzzle or crossword.

日本語:ヒント※

“The crossword clue for five across was very difficult to solve.”

“The cryptic crossword was particularly challenging because every clue contained a hidden pun or a double meaning.”

B2 · Upper Intermediate Informal

v. to give someone information that they do not have yet.

v. to provide someone with necessary information or context; often used with the particles 'in' or 'up'.

“Can you clue me in on what happened at the meeting this morning?”

“The manager promised to clue the rest of the team in once the final details of the merger were confirmed.”