线索

• Pinyin: xiàn suǒ
• Hanzi breakdown: 线 = 纟 (silk) + 戋 (small), meaning thread; 索 = 十 (ten) + 冖 (cover) + 糸 (silk), meaning rope or to search

Meaning

Clue; lead; thread. A piece of evidence or information that helps solve a problem or mystery.

Originally meaning a thread or string, now commonly used for clues in investigations, plot threads in stories, or any lead that guides toward understanding. Often used in detective contexts, research, or problem-solving situations.

Examples

1. 警察正在寻找破案的线索。 The police are looking for clues to solve the case.
2. 这封信可能是找到他的重要线索。 This letter might be an important lead to finding him.
3. 调查人员顺着线索终于找到了真相。 The investigators followed the clues and finally found the truth.

Usage Guide

Context: investigation, storytelling

Tone: analytical

Do Say

• 你有什么线索吗？(Do you have any leads?)
• 这个线索很重要，不能忽视。(This clue is very important, we can't ignore it.)

Don't Say

• 给我一个线索答案 (Don't mix up 线索 with 提示 — use 提示 for hints in games or quizzes)

Origin & History

Compound of 线 (thread, line) and 索 (rope, to search), metaphorically extended from physical thread to abstract clue.

Cultural Context

Generation: All ages

Social background: Universal