breadcrumb trail
1
4.8
- noun
:
rastro de migas
- The detective followed the breadcrumb trail of evidence to solve the mystery.
He gave, he left his breadcrumb trail of clues.
- He gave, he left his breadcrumb trail of clues.
Examples
-
This must be why Bowler Hat was there... following your breadcrumb trail.
-
He gave, he left his breadcrumb trail of clues.
-
In the forum, users left a breadcrumb trail of hints for solving the puzzle.
-
The child's drawings created a breadcrumb trail that helped her mother find her in the park.
Synonyms
229
3.5
A set of clues that help solve a problem or a crime
18
3.5
A plan that shows steps to reach a goal
5
4.2
A row of links that shows where you are on a website and lets you go back
A set of small signs that help you find your way back, often on websites
How Direct
Surface Forms
Morphology
The compound combines 'breadcrumb' (small pieces used to mark a path) with 'trail' (a sequence or path), so the idea of small clues leading step-by-step to a solution is inferable from the parts. However, the meaning relies on a metaphorical/cultural image (Hansel and Gretel / marking a path) and a specialized extension (e.g., web navigation), so it is not fully predictable for all B1 learners without some exposure.
Etymology
Breadcrumb trail may come from the story of Hansel and Gretel, where the children left bits of breadcrumb to make a trail showing the way back. So today a breadcrumb trail means a series of clues or steps that help you find an answer or 'retrace your steps'.