clue / anchor point
Loading your saved state.
clue
An initial clue or piece of information that helps with solving a problem, an investigation, or a search.
Die Polizei hat noch keine Anhaltspunkte, wer der Täter sein könnte.
The police still have no clues as to who the perpetrator might be.
The word consists of 'Anhalt' and 'Punkt' (point). 'Anhalt' comes from the verb 'anhalten' in the sense of 'sich festhalten' (to hold on). So an 'Anhaltspunkt' is literally a point where you can hold on—whether in an investigation or on a rock face.
Jede kleine Information kann ein wichtiger Anhaltspunkt sein.
Every small piece of information can be an important clue.
In the context of investigations or searches, 'Anhaltspunkt' is often combined with verbs like 'haben' (to have), 'finden' (to find), 'liefern' (to provide), or 'geben' (to give). It is often used in the plural.
Ein Zeuge konnte der Polizei entscheidende Anhaltspunkte liefern.
A witness was able to provide the police with crucial clues.
To say what the clue refers to, the preposition 'für' (for) followed by the accusative is used very often. So you have 'Anhaltspunkte für etwas' (clues for something).
Gibt es irgendwelche Anhaltspunkte für seinen Aufenthaltsort?
Are there any clues as to his whereabouts?
The literal meaning of a physical holding point is rare and is mainly used in specialized language, for example in climbing or construction.
Der Kletterer prüfte den Felsen auf sichere Anhaltspunkte.
The climber checked the rock for secure anchor points.
hint / notice
'der Hinweis' and 'der Anhaltspunkt' are close in meaning when a piece of information helps with searching, understanding, or solving a problem. 'Hinweis' is broader and can also be a direct tip. 'Anhaltspunkt' means more like an initial clue or a small sign that you can use for orientation. In a search, investigation, or unclear situation, 'Anhaltspunkt' often sounds more precise. When someone intentionally gives helpful information, 'Hinweis' is more natural.
Die Adresse auf dem alten Brief war der einzige Anhaltspunkt bei der Suche.
The address on the old letter was the only clue in the search.
Morgen bekommst du einen Hinweis, wie du das Gerät richtig anschließt.
Tomorrow you will get a tip on how to connect the device correctly.