clue / indication
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clue / indication
A clue, indication, or piece of evidence that helps clarify a question or with a search. The plural 'Anhaltspunkte' is often used.
Die Polizei hatte zunächst keinen Anhalt für die Identität des Täters.
At first, the police had no clue as to the identity of the perpetrator.
'Der Anhalt' is related to the verb 'anhalten' (to stop / to hold on). Figuratively speaking, an 'Anhalt' is something you can 'hold on to' during a search or when thinking something through.
Ohne einen konkreten Anhalt kommen wir bei der Lösung des Problems nicht weiter.
Without a concrete clue, we won't get any further in solving the problem.
The compound 'der Anhaltspunkt' (plural: die Anhaltspunkte) is used much more often than 'der Anhalt' on its own. It means 'piece of evidence' or 'clue'.
Die Ermittler suchen nach neuen Anhaltspunkten in dem Fall.
The investigators are looking for new clues in the case.
'Anhaltspunkt(e)' is often combined with verbs such as 'haben' (to have), 'finden' (to find), 'geben' (to give), or 'liefern' (to provide). The negative form 'keine Anhaltspunkte haben' (to have no clues) is especially common.
Die Zeugenaussage lieferte einen wichtigen Anhaltspunkt.
The witness statement provided an important clue.
hint / notice
'der Hinweis' and 'der Anhalt' can both mean something that helps with understanding, searching, or clarifying something. 'Hinweis' is the normal, broad word: someone can give a 'Hinweis', and a 'Hinweis' can also be a tip or a helpful piece of information. 'Anhalt' is more like an initial point that you can use for orientation. Very often people say 'Anhaltspunkt' for this, or the plural 'Anhaltspunkte'. Learners may confuse the words because both point toward a solution. In everyday language, 'Hinweis' is usually more natural; 'Anhalt' sounds more factual and is often used in investigations or unclear questions.
Die Polizei hatte zunächst keinen Anhalt für die Ursache des Unfalls.
At first, the police had no clue about the cause of the accident.
Der Hinweis der Nachbarin half uns, den verlorenen Schlüssel zu finden.
The neighbor's tip helped us find the lost key.