ask about crossword clue – All Crossword Answers
Welcome! If you're tackling the crossword clue "ask about crossword clue", you've come to the right place. We provide quick and accurate solutions, along with helpful explanations to boost your crossword-solving skills. Find your answer by letter count below.
Solutions for "ask about crossword clue" by Letter Count
3 Letters
ASK: To seek information or an answer. This is the most direct and common interpretation of "ask about," fitting many contexts.
5 Letters
QUERY: To ask a question or express doubt. Often implies a more formal or pointed type of "asking about" a subject.
PROBE: To investigate or explore thoroughly, often by asking detailed questions. This suggests a deeper form of "asking about" a situation or issue.
7 Letters
INQUIRE: To ask for information from someone; formally investigate. This word frequently appears in crosswords when the clue implies a more formal or official "asking about" something.
More About "ask about crossword clue"
The phrase "ask about crossword clue" is a classic example of a crossword clue that points to verbs of communication, investigation, or inquiry. The core idea revolves around seeking information or expressing curiosity regarding a specific topic. Depending on the length and the context provided by other clues in your puzzle, the answer could range from a simple, direct word like "ASK" to more nuanced terms such as "INQUIRE" or "PROBE."
When you see "ask about" in a clue, it's crucial to consider the various synonyms for "ask" that also incorporate the idea of a subject or object of the inquiry. Words like "query" or "probe" inherently carry the sense of delving into or questioning something specific. Crossword setters love to play with these subtleties, so always think about the exact shade of meaning the clue might be hinting at.
Understanding these subtle differences will not only help you solve the current puzzle but also improve your overall crossword-solving acumen. The key is to expand your vocabulary around core concepts and recognize how setters use prepositions like "about" to guide you towards more specific answers.
Tips For Your Next Puzzle
- Consider Synonyms and Nuances: For clues like "ask about," brainstorm all possible synonyms for 'ask' (inquire, query, probe, question, demand) and then filter them based on whether they logically fit with 'about' and the required letter count.
- Check Surrounding Letters: If you have a few letters filled in from intersecting words, use them as powerful hints. This can quickly narrow down the possibilities for words like "ask about" where multiple synonyms exist.
- Look for Part of Speech: Is the clue implying a verb (to ask) or a noun (an ask)? While "ask about" heavily suggests a verb, always double-check. The context of the clue and the puzzle type can be important.
- Practice Regularity: The more you solve crosswords, the more familiar you'll become with common clue patterns and solutions for frequently appearing concepts like 'asking' or 'inquiring'.
For more advice, visit our page on general crossword strategies.
Frequently Asked Questions
What's the best way to approach a "ask about" type clue in a crossword?
Clues like "ask about" often point to verbs related to investigation, questioning, or seeking information. Consider synonyms for 'ask' that fit the required letter count, thinking about the nuance of the 'about' aspect, which suggests a topic or subject of inquiry.
Are there common crossword pitfalls with clues involving "asking"?
Yes, be mindful of context. "Ask about" could imply a simple query, an investigation, or even a demand. Also, differentiate between 'ask' as a verb and 'ask' as a noun (e.g., 'an ask' for a request). Always check the surrounding letters and known answers to confirm the part of speech.
How do crosswords distinguish between formal and informal "asking"?
Crossword setters often use synonyms to indicate formality. Words like "inquire" or "interrogate" suggest formality, while "quiz" or "pump" might suggest informality. The overall tone of the clue or other words in the clue can often hint at the required register.