be extremely sparing 5 letters crossword – All Crossword Answers
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Solutions for "be extremely sparing 5 letters crossword" by Letter Count
5 Letters
STING: To be extremely frugal or reluctant to spend, often to the point of being mean-spirited or tight-fisted. This term perfectly captures the essence of being excessively sparing with resources, particularly money, and is a very common answer for this type of clue in crosswords.
More About "be extremely sparing 5 letters crossword"
The phrase "be extremely sparing" or "extremely sparing" is a common way for crossword setters to hint at a word related to frugality or miserliness. The key is the intensity implied by "extremely." It suggests a level of restraint or conservation that goes beyond simple economy, often veering into reluctance to share or spend even when necessary.
Words like 'STING' (as in 'to stingy') perfectly fit this description, indicating a strong aversion to parting with money or resources. Understanding this nuance is crucial in crosswords, as many words might mean 'sparing' but few convey the 'extremely' part as directly as 'STING' does within a 5-letter constraint.
When you encounter similar clues in the future, think about the degree of the action or quality described. An adjective like 'frugal' or 'thrifty' might be 'sparing,' but 'extremely sparing' points to a stronger, more intense descriptor, often one that carries a slightly negative connotation of meanness or excessive tightness.
Tips For Your Next Puzzle
- Analyze the Degree: Pay close attention to adverbs like "extremely," "very," "hardly," or "always." These modifiers provide vital clues about the intensity or frequency of the action, helping you choose the most accurate synonym.
- Consider Connotations: Some words, like "STING," carry a slight negative connotation (miserly, mean). Crossword setters often use these to guide you, so think about whether the clue implies a positive, neutral, or negative characteristic.
- Look for Common Idioms: Phrases like "pinch pennies," "tight-fisted," or "penny-pinching" are often represented by single words in crosswords. If a clue feels idiomatic, try to break it down to its core meaning.
- Check Letter Count First: Always confirm the required letter count immediately. This is the fastest way to narrow down potential answers and can often eliminate many possibilities, focusing your search on words of the correct length.
For more advice, visit our page on general crossword strategies.
Frequently Asked Questions
What does 'be extremely sparing' mean in a crossword context?
In crosswords, 'be extremely sparing' typically refers to someone who is very reluctant to spend money or use resources, often implying a degree of meanness or excessive frugality. Common synonyms in this context include 'hoard,' 'economize,' or 'skimp,' but for a 5-letter answer, 'STING' is a perfect fit, implying 'to be a miser' or 'to be tight-fisted.'
Are there other common 5-letter answers for clues related to being 'sparing'?
While 'STING' is highly common for 'be extremely sparing,' other 5-letter words related to being careful with resources might include 'SAVER' (someone who saves), 'SKIMP' (to provide inadequately), or 'HOARD' (to accumulate resources). However, the specific phrasing 'be extremely sparing' points strongly towards the sense of being miserly or mean, making STING the most direct and frequent solution.
How can I identify synonyms for 'sparing' in crosswords?
To identify synonyms for 'sparing' or 'being extremely sparing' in crosswords, consider words that convey frugality, miserliness, economy, or reluctance to give. Look for clues that use verbs like 'hoard,' 'scrimp,' 'stint,' or 'pinch pennies.' Also, pay attention to the number of letters required, as this often narrows down the possibilities significantly. Contextual clues regarding money or resources are also key.