band of associates crossword clue – All Crossword Answers
Welcome to Crosswordanswer.co.uk, your ultimate resource for solving challenging crossword clues. Below, you'll find comprehensive solutions and explanations for "band of associates crossword clue," organized by letter count to help you quickly complete your puzzle.
Solutions for "band of associates crossword clue" by Letter Count
4 Letters
GANG: A common term for a group of associates, often informal or with shared interests.
5 Letters
GROUP: A general term for a number of people or things that are located, gathered, or classified together.
6 Letters
CLIQUE: A small, exclusive group of people with shared interests or characteristics.
7 Letters
FACTION: A small organized dissenting group within a larger one, especially in politics.
9 Letters
SYNDICATE: A group of individuals or organizations combined to promote some common interest, especially a business or criminal one.
More About "band of associates crossword clue"
The clue "band of associates" points to a collective noun describing a group of people connected by a common purpose, interest, or sometimes even a shared activity, which might not always be formal or official. The nuance of the 'band' often suggests a close-knit or specific affiliation, moving beyond just a general 'group' to something with more identity or intention.
Crossword setters love clues like this because they can have multiple valid answers depending on the context or the specific type of 'association' they're hinting at. From informal 'gangs' to more organized 'syndicates' or exclusive 'cliques,' the key is to consider the connotations of each potential answer and how it fits with the overall puzzle's theme or other intersecting words. This variety is what makes these clues both challenging and rewarding to solve.
Understanding these different facets of 'association' can not only help you solve this particular clue but also enhance your vocabulary for future puzzles. It's a testament to the richness of the English language that so many words can describe essentially the same concept with subtle, yet important, distinctions.
Tips For Your Next Puzzle
- Count the Letters: Always start by counting the number of blank spaces in your crossword grid. This immediately narrows down the possible answers for any clue, including "band of associates."
- Consider the Context: Look at the theme of the crossword puzzle (if any) or other clues you've already solved. Sometimes, the overall tone of the puzzle can hint at whether the 'band' is positive, negative, formal, or informal.
- Check Intersecting Words: The most reliable way to confirm an answer is to see if its letters match up with the letters of intersecting words you've already filled in. If a letter doesn't fit, your chosen answer is likely incorrect.
- Think of Synonyms and Nuances: For clues like "band of associates," brainstorm various synonyms and consider their subtle differences. Is it a professional group, a criminal one, or just friends?
For more advice, visit our page on general crossword strategies.
Frequently Asked Questions
What's the best strategy for solving crossword clues about groups of people?
When encountering clues about 'groups' or 'bands of associates,' consider the nuance implied by the clue. Is it formal or informal? Exclusive or inclusive? This can help narrow down options from 'GANG' to 'SYNDICATE' or 'CLIQUE'. Also, pay attention to the number of letters required.
Why are there often multiple answers for a single crossword clue?
Crossword clues can be intentionally ambiguous or broad, allowing for various synonyms or related concepts that fit the letter count. This is a common feature designed to challenge solvers and encourage deeper vocabulary exploration. The best answer depends on the intersecting words in the grid.
How can I quickly find the right 'band of associates' answer in a puzzle?
First, count the number of empty squares in your grid to determine the required letter length. Then, review the possible answers for 'band of associates' of that specific length. Finally, check if the letters you already have from intersecting words match any of the potential solutions.