der Anhaltspunkt
Translation
clue, lead, indication, starting point
Examples
Die Polizei hat keine Anhaltspunkte.
The police have no leads.
Das gibt uns einen ersten Anhaltspunkt.
That gives us a first clue.
Gibt es Anhaltspunkte für seine Schuld?
Is there any evidence of his guilt?
Grammar Patterns
to have ((Anhaltspunkte)) for ((sth.)) to have clues for sth. We have no Anhaltspunkte for the perpetrator.
to give ((sb.dat)) ((an Anhaltspunkt)) to give sb. a clue The witness gave us an Anhaltspunkt.
Similar Words
Synonyms: Hinweis, Indiz, Anzeichen
Etymology
Composed of 'an' (on) + 'Halt' (hold) + 'Punkt' (point). Literally a 'holding-on point', which functions as a clue or reference point.
Memory Tips
Think of it as a 'point' (Punkt) that gives you a 'hold' (Halt) on a situation—a clue or a lead.