I hadn't the slightest clue vs I didn't have a clue

Both phrases are correct and commonly used in English. They convey the same meaning but differ slightly in terms of formality. 'I hadn't the slightest clue' is a bit more formal and literary, while 'I didn't have a clue' is more casual and conversational.

Last updated: March 15, 2024

I hadn't the slightest clue

This phrase is correct but less commonly used in everyday conversation. It has a slightly more formal tone.

This phrase is used to express that someone had no idea or knowledge about something in the past. It is more formal and literary compared to other similar expressions.

Examples:

I hadn't the slightest clue what she was talking about.
He hadn't the slightest clue how to fix the problem.

Alternatives:

I didn't have a clue
I had no idea
I was clueless
I was completely unaware
I was in the dark

I didn't have a clue

This phrase is correct and commonly used in everyday conversation. It has a more casual and informal tone.

This phrase is used to express that someone had no idea or knowledge about something in the past. It is a common and informal way to convey ignorance or lack of understanding.

Examples:

I didn't have a clue what was going on.
She didn't have a clue where she left her keys.

Alternatives:

I hadn't the slightest clue
I had no idea
I was clueless
I was completely unaware
I was in the dark

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I hadn't the slightest clue vs I didn't have a clue