What is the difference?
You can use both I have no clue and I have no idea to express that you have no information/knowledge about something. They mean the same thing.
The only difference may be that the word clue is a little bit more informal than the word idea. Although you should not use either expression in a formal situation as they don’t sound very polite.
- When do you think Brad will get here?
- I have no idea.
- I have no clue.
The above dialogue is likely to take place between friends or colleagues. However, if you are in a more formal situation, such as an important meeting or interview, try to use different words. For example:
- When do you think we will start?
- I’m afraid, I’m not sure.
- I’m sorry, I don’t know.
If you would like to learn some useful expressions you can say when you do not know the answer to a question, read Other Ways to Say “I don’t know”.
