be contingent crossword clue – All Crossword Answers
Welcome to Crosswordanswer.co.uk! Below you'll find all possible solutions and explanations for the crossword clue "be contingent". We aim to provide the most comprehensive and user-friendly answers to help you complete your puzzle with ease.
Solutions for "be contingent crossword clue" by Letter Count
4 Letters
RELY: To depend on with full trust or confidence.
REST: To be based on; to depend on a specified thing for support or validity.
HANG: To be dependent or conditional on something, often used in phrases like 'everything hangs on this decision'.
5 Letters
HINGE: To depend or turn on (something), as in 'his career hinged on that one performance'.
6 Letters
DEPEND: To be controlled or determined by another factor; to rely on.
More About "be contingent crossword clue"
"Be contingent" is a common phrase that indicates dependence or conditionality. In general English, it means that something is subject to change or is dependent on something else happening. For instance, 'Our plans are contingent on the weather' means our plans depend on the weather conditions. This concept is frequently tested in crosswords because it has several synonyms across various word lengths.
When you encounter this clue, think about words that express reliance, support, or condition. Crossword setters often use such clues to test your vocabulary range, moving beyond the most obvious synonyms to more nuanced alternatives. Understanding the core meaning of 'contingent'—dependent or conditional—is key to unlocking these solutions, whether it's a short 4-letter word or a longer one.
The variety of answers for 'be contingent' reflects the richness of the English language. From direct synonyms like DEPEND to more metaphorical ones like HINGE, each word captures a slightly different aspect of reliance. This makes it a great clue for solvers to expand their lexicon and truly grasp the subtle differences between seemingly similar terms.
Tips For Your Next Puzzle
- Look at Intersecting Letters: Always use the letters from already solved clues that cross your current one. This is the most effective way to narrow down multiple possible answers for a clue like "be contingent."
- Consider Word Length: The exact number of boxes available for the answer is your strongest hint. If 'RELY' fits but 'DEPEND' doesn't, you know which one is correct.
- Think Synonyms and Context: For clues involving concepts like 'dependence' or 'conditionality,' brainstorm related words. Sometimes the answer isn't a direct synonym but a word that conveys a similar sense in a specific context.
- Check for Tenses and Forms: Ensure your answer matches the tense or grammatical form of the clue. "Be contingent" implies a verb in its base form or an infinitive.
For more advice, visit our page on general crossword strategies.
Frequently Asked Questions
What does 'be contingent' mean in a crossword context?
In crosswords, 'be contingent' typically refers to something that is dependent on or conditional upon another factor. It often points to synonyms like RELY, DEPEND, HINGE, or REST, all suggesting a state of reliance or being determined by something else.
Why do some crossword clues like 'be contingent' have multiple answers?
Clues can have multiple answers because many words are synonyms or have overlapping meanings. The specific answer depends on the number of letters required in the puzzle, the surrounding letters you've already filled in, and the specific nuance the puzzle setter intends. 'Be contingent' has several close synonyms that fit different word lengths.
How can I figure out the correct answer for 'be contingent' if there are multiple options?
The best way is to use the intersecting letters from other solved clues in your crossword. These letters will narrow down the possibilities significantly. Also, consider the exact word count required. Sometimes, one synonym might fit the overall theme or style of the particular crossword puzzle better.