Synonym Nuance VS
How to say "Clue" in Japanese
Both words can translate to "clue", but which should you choose?
Japanese Option A
手掛かり
てがかり (tegakari)
N2 / CEFR Syllabus
VS
Japanese Option B
端緒
たんしょ (tansho)
N1 / CEFR Syllabus
Nuance Contrast & Translation Difference
When translating "clue" into Japanese, you must choose carefully between 手掛かり and 端緒.
In Japanese, 手掛かり (てがかり (tegakari)) is typically associated with "clue, lead, trace, hint" (Syllabus Level: N2) and represents Something that helps in solving a mystery, finding something lost, or making progress in a task. It's a key piece of information or an initial step..
On the other hand, 端緒 (たんしょ (tansho)) maps to "clue; lead; beginning; start; origin" (Syllabus Level: N1) and represents Refers to the beginning of something, often an investigation, discovery, or an opportunity that leads to something larger. It suggests a first step or a hint.. A literal translation of "clue" can often sound unnatural to native Japanese speakers if mixed up!
Bilingual Context for "手掛かり"
事件解決の手掛かりが見つかった。
A clue to solving the case was found.
Bilingual Context for "端緒"
この事件解決の端緒となる重要な情報が見つかった。
Important information that could be the clue to solving this case has been found.
Nuance Mastery Quiz
Which Japanese word perfectly fits this blank space?
Fill in the blank: "事件解決の ＿＿＿ が見つかった。" (Meaning: "A clue to solving the case was found.")
🎉 Correct Answer!
Remember: "手掛かり" fits here because it means "clue, lead, trace, hint" in the context of: "A clue to solving the case was found.". "端緒" represents "clue; lead; beginning; start; origin".