indirect evidence (noun)

1. In the cartoon, the detective examined the footprints left behind at the crime scene as indirect evidence to solve the mystery.

2. The fashion designer used the presence of a certain type of fabric in the suspect's clothing as indirect evidence of their involvement in the crime.

3. In the mystery novel, the main character analyzed the phone call records as indirect evidence to uncover the true identity of the anonymous caller.

4. In the fantasy novel, the protagonist found a hidden scroll that revealed an ancient prophecy as indirect evidence of their destiny to save the world.