teがかりgakariてが手掛tegaかりkariてがか手掛tegakari
1.

A support or point of contact used to assist in climbing or gaining stability while navigating a physical space.

2.

An initial piece of information or indication that aids in the progression of an investigation or inquiry, helping to uncover further details or reach a conclusion.

3.

A subtle indication or lead that guides one toward discovering additional information or solutions in a complex situation.

Example:

その殺人者の正体は手掛かりがまったくなかった。