abrupt crossword clue – All Crossword Answers
Welcome to Crosswordanswer.co.uk! If you're stuck on the "abrupt" clue, you've come to the right place. Below you'll find a comprehensive list of solutions, categorized by their letter count, along with clear explanations to help you complete your puzzle with ease.
Solutions for "abrupt crossword clue" by Letter Count
4 Letters
CURT: Rudely brief or abrupt in speech or manner.
5 Letters
BLUNT: Abrupt in manner, straightforward, often to the point of being rude.
TERSE: Sparsely using words; abrupt and concise.
SHORT: Quick and sudden; also, rudely brief.
6 Letters
SUDDEN: Happening quickly and unexpectedly; without warning.
7 Letters
BRUSQUE: Abrupt or offhand in speech or manner; blunt.
More About "abrupt crossword clue"
"Abrupt" is a common crossword clue that can sometimes be tricky due to its multiple meanings. It often refers to something sudden or unexpected, like an "abrupt change" or "abrupt stop," leading to answers such as SUDDEN. However, it can also describe a manner of speech or behavior that is rude, brief, or blunt, in which case words like CURT, BRUSQUE, or TERSE become relevant.
Another less common but valid interpretation is something physically steep or sharply inclined, as in an "abrupt cliff," which might lead to answers like STEEP or SHEER. When encountering this clue, always consider the surrounding context of the puzzle, especially any intersecting letters, to narrow down the possibilities. Pay attention to the number of letters required, as this is often the most direct hint for this versatile clue.
Tips For Your Next Puzzle
- Check Letter Count First: Always count the boxes in the grid for the clue. This immediately eliminates many possibilities and guides your thought process towards answers of the correct length.
- Consider Nuances of the Clue: For words like "abrupt," think about its different definitions. Is the puzzle looking for a synonym for 'sudden', 'rude', or 'steep'? This can drastically change the pool of potential answers.
- Look at Intersecting Words: The letters from crossing words are your best friends. Even one confirmed letter can help you complete an otherwise elusive word.
- Use a Thesaurus (Carefully): If you're stuck, a thesaurus can provide synonyms, but cross-reference them with common crossword jargon and the clue's specific meaning.
For more advice, visit our page on general crossword strategies.
Frequently Asked Questions
What does 'abrupt' mean in a crossword context?
In crosswords, 'abrupt' can refer to something sudden and unexpected, a steep incline or decline, or a short, rude, or blunt manner of speaking or acting. The specific context of the puzzle or other crossing letters will help determine the precise meaning.
How can I determine the correct length for an 'abrupt' answer?
The length of the answer will usually be indicated by the grid (number of boxes). You'll need to count the available spaces. Common lengths for 'abrupt' include 4 (CURT), 5 (BLUNT, TERSE), 6 (SUDDEN), and 7 (BRUSQUE, STEEPLY).
Are there common synonyms for 'abrupt' used in crosswords?
Yes, common synonyms include SUDDEN, BRUSQUE, CURT, BLUNT, TERSE, SHORT, HASTY, and STEEP (when referring to a slope). Always consider the nuance of the clue – is it about time, manner, or physical characteristic?