Haven't got a clue

Definitions

lack of knowledge or understanding
Expressing that someone does not know or understand something

Examples of Haven't got a clue

Sarah asked me for advice on how to fix her computer, but I'm afraid I haven't got a clue.

This idiom is used when someone does not have any knowledge or understanding about a particular topic. In this example, the speaker is saying that they do not know how to fix Sarah's computer.
The police are still searching for the robber, but they haven't got a clue where he might be.

This idiom is often used to describe a situation where people are trying to find something or solve a problem, but they have not been able to find any clues or leads. In this example, the police do not have any information about the robber's whereabouts.
My math teacher asked me a question that I haven't got a clue how to answer.

This idiom can be used in a sentence to indicate confusion or lack of knowledge about a specific question or topic. In this example, the speaker is saying that they do not know how to answer their math teacher's question.
I'm on a diet, but I keep eating junk food because I haven't got a clue how to resist it.

This idiom can also be used to describe a situation where someone is struggling with a particular habit or behavior. In this example, the speaker is saying that they do not know how to stop themselves from eating junk food despite being on a diet. The word "clue" in this context stands for a helpful hint or suggestion that could guide someone towards making the right decision.
The detective hesitated as he inspected the crime scene, feeling completely clueless about who could have committed the heinous act.

"Haven't got a clue" is often used to express a lack of information or knowledge about a particular situation. In this example, the detective is saying that he doesn't have any clues or ideas about who might have committed the crime. The phrase "haven't got a clue" is a colloquial way of saying "I have no idea" or "I am completely in the dark about this matter." This idiom is commonly used in spoken English, especially in informal or conversational settings.
When my friend asked me about the location of a popular nightclub, I had to admit that I hadn't got a clue where it was.

In this example, the speaker is admitting that they do not know the whereabouts of a specific location. "Haven't got a clue" is used to express the speaker's lack of knowledge or information about the location. This idiom is commonly used in everyday conversation, especially when a person is asking for directions or information about a particular place.
When my co-worker asked me how to operate a complex piece of machinery, I could barely suppress a smile as I admitted that I hadn't got a clue how to use it myself.

In this example, the speaker is admitting that they are not familiar with the operation of a specific machine or device. "Haven't got a clue" is used to express the speaker's lack of knowledge or experience in using the machine. In this case, the speaker may have been asked to demonstrate how to use the machine, but they are unable to do so because they don't have any prior experience.
As the tech support representative patiently explained the various steps required to resolve my computer problem, I silently admitted that I still hadn't got a clue about what was causing the issue in the first place.

In this example, the speaker is acknowledging that they still don't understand the root cause of a particular computer problem, despite receiving assistance from a technical support representative. "Haven't got a clue" is used to express the speaker's continued lack of understanding or knowledge about the issue. In this case, the speaker may have been provided with some helpful suggestions or solutions, but they still don't understand the underlying cause of the problem.

Conclusion

The idiom "haven't got a clue" is used to convey a lack of knowledge or understanding about something. It is often used in a casual or informal conversation to express confusion or ignorance about a particular topic or situation. This phrase can be used to admit that one does not know the answer to a question or is unsure about how to solve a problem.

It can also be used to indicate a lack of awareness or insight into a specific matter. Overall, "haven't got a clue" is a straightforward way to acknowledge that one is not in possession of the necessary information or understanding.

Origin of "Haven't got a clue"

The origin of the idiom "haven't got a clue" is not definitively known, but it likely originated from the idea that a "clue" refers to a piece of information or key that helps solve a mystery or puzzle. Therefore, not having a clue would mean lacking the essential information or insight needed to understand or figure something out.

The expression has been used in colloquial English for a long time and has become a common way to express ignorance or confusion. It is often used in everyday speech to convey a sense of not knowing or understanding something. Overall, the origin of "haven't got a clue" reflects its literal meaning of not having the crucial information or understanding needed to comprehend a situation.