Looking up...
糸口
itoguchi
clue
事件の糸口を見つけた。
I found a clue to the case.
formal
A small piece of information or evidence that helps solve a problem or mystery.
警察は事件の糸口を探している。
The police are looking for a clue to the case.
この研究は新しい治療法への糸口になるだろう。
This research will likely provide a clue toward a new treatment.
Often used in contexts like investigations, research, or problem-solving where finding a starting point is crucial.
Pro Tip
Remembering the imagery
Think of a thread (糸) leading to an opening (口). This visual helps recall that 糸口 represents a path or clue leading to a solution.
Gold Rule
Use 糸口 for beginnings, not endings
糸口 refers to the initial clue or starting point, not the final answer. For example, 'a clue to the mystery' is 事件の糸口, not the solution itself.
Word Origin
The word consists of 糸 (いと, 'thread') and 口 (くち, 'mouth' or 'opening'). The imagery suggests a thread leading to an opening, metaphorically representing a path or clue that leads to solving a problem or mystery.
Usage Notes
糸口 is typically used in formal or written contexts, such as investigations, academic research, or troubleshooting. It implies a starting point or initial insight rather than a complete solution.
Word Breakdown
糸
thread
root口
mouth/opening
root和英辞典