aim to obtain in an underhand way crossword clue – All Crossword Answers
Welcome to Crosswordanswer.co.uk! Below you'll find comprehensive solutions for the clue "aim to obtain in an underhand way crossword clue", complete with explanations and tips to help you master your next puzzle.
Solutions for "aim to obtain in an underhand way crossword clue" by Letter Count
6 Letters
WANGLE: To obtain something by devious means or by clever persuasion, often implying a less-than-straightforward method.
SCHEME: To make secret and devious plans, often with the aim of achieving something in an underhand or clandestine manner.
7 Letters
FINESSE: To achieve something by subtle, delicate, or manipulative means; often involving indirect or artful management to obtain a desired outcome.
More About "aim to obtain in an underhand way crossword clue"
The phrase "aim to obtain in an underhand way" points to actions characterized by secrecy, trickery, or dishonesty. In crosswords, such clues challenge solvers to think beyond obvious synonyms and delve into words that describe subtle manipulation or clandestine efforts to acquire something. This can range from clever negotiation to outright deception.
Words like WANGLE, SCHEME, and FINESSE perfectly encapsulate this concept. 'Wangle' suggests artful dodging or manipulation to get one's way, while 'scheme' implies a more pre-planned, often illicit, design. 'Finesse', though it can mean skillful handling, also carries a connotation of subtle manipulation to achieve an aim that might not be openly achievable.
Understanding the nuances of 'underhand' is key. It's not just about stealing, but about employing methods that are not transparent, fair, or direct. This often involves a degree of cleverness or cunning, rather than brute force or honest request.
Tips For Your Next Puzzle
- Consider synonyms for 'underhand': Think of words like sly, sneaky, cunning, secretive, illicit, devious, or surreptitious. These adjectives often pair with verbs of obtaining.
- Break down the clue: Separate the action ('aim to obtain') from the manner ('in an underhand way'). This helps you find a verb that fits the action and an adverbial meaning that fits the manner.
- Check letter counts carefully: Crossword answers are precise. If you have some letters already filled in, use them to narrow down possible words that fit both the definition and the pattern.
- Think of context: While the clue might seem abstract, sometimes the puzzle's theme or other completed answers can provide subtle hints about the required tone or field of the word.
For more advice, visit our page on general crossword strategies.
Frequently Asked Questions
What does 'underhand' typically imply in crossword clues?
In crosswords, 'underhand' often points towards words suggesting secrecy, deception, manipulation, or actions performed without full transparency. Look for synonyms related to slyness, cunning, or surreptitious methods.
Why do clues like 'aim to obtain in an underhand way' often have multiple answers?
Clues with broad meanings, like 'aim to obtain in an underhand way', can have multiple valid synonyms depending on the specific nuance or letter count required by the puzzle. Different crossword constructors might also interpret such phrases slightly differently, leading to varied answers across puzzles.
How can I improve my ability to solve cryptic crossword clues related to obtaining things?
Focus on identifying the core verb (e.g., 'obtain', 'get') and then the modifying adjective or adverb ('underhand', 'quickly', 'secretly'). Practice thinking of synonyms for each part, and combine them. Pay attention to wordplay elements like anagrams, reversals, or hidden words, as 'obtaining' can sometimes be clued through these mechanisms.