noun
A piece of information or evidence that helps solve a problem, find something, or understand a situation. Common in detective work, research, and everyday problem-solving.
警察は事件の手がかりを探している。
The police are looking for clues to the case.
His words became a clue to solving the problem.
noun
handhold; hold
A place to grip with the hand, such as on a rock face or a piece of furniture. Less common than the figurative 'clue' sense.
岩に手がかりがなくて登れなかった。
There were no handholds on the rock, so I couldn't climb it.