bellicose crossword clue – All Crossword Answers
Welcome to Crosswordanswer.co.uk! If you're tackling the 'bellicose' crossword clue, you've come to the right place. We've compiled a comprehensive list of potential answers, complete with explanations, to help you complete your puzzle quickly and confidently. Let's conquer this clue together!
Solutions for "bellicose crossword clue" by Letter Count
5 Letters
HAWKY: Suggesting an aggressive or warlike stance, like a hawk.
7 Letters
WARLIKE: Possessing a disposition or character inclined to war.
8 Letters
MILITANT: Aggressively active in support of a cause; sometimes implies a readiness for conflict.
10 Letters
PUGNACIOUS: Eager or quick to argue, quarrel, or fight.
More About "bellicose crossword clue"
The word 'bellicose' itself stems from the Latin 'bellum,' meaning war. It describes someone or something displaying a readiness to fight or quarrel, often exhibiting aggressive and hostile behavior. In crosswords, clues related to 'bellicose' frequently point to words that convey this sense of aggression, combativeness, or a warlike nature. Understanding the root 'bell-' can be a key strategy in solving such clues.
Crossword setters often use synonyms like 'warlike,' 'hostile,' or 'pugnacious' when crafting clues for 'bellicose.' They might also employ phrases that describe a propensity for conflict, such as 'ready to fight' or 'argumentative.' Context within the puzzle, such as accompanying words or the overall theme, can provide further hints to narrow down the possible answers.
When you encounter a 'bellicose' clue, consider the nuance. Is it describing a general state of being, a specific action, or a character trait? This can guide you towards the most appropriate synonym and help you select the answer that perfectly fits the number of letters required for your grid.
Tips For Your Next Puzzle
- Analyze Word Lengths: Always check the number of letters required. This is the most crucial constraint in crosswords and immediately helps eliminate many possibilities.
- Consider Synonyms and Antonyms: Think of words that mean the same or the opposite of the clue. 'Bellicose' might lead you to 'pacific' or 'peaceful' if the clue implies the opposite.
- Look for Common Prefixes/Suffixes: Words like 'bellicose' often have Latin or Greek roots. Recognizing 'bell-' as 'war' can unlock many related words.
- Utilize Cross-References: If you've solved intersecting clues, use those letters as anchors. This is especially helpful for longer answers.
- Check for Homophones/Homographs: Some clues play on words that sound alike but have different meanings or are spelled the same but have different pronunciations/meanings. While less common for 'bellicose', it's a general strategy.
For more advice, visit our page on general crossword strategies.
Frequently Asked Questions
What does 'bellicose' mean in a crossword context?
In crosswords, 'bellicose' typically refers to a warlike, aggressive, or hostile disposition. Answers will often be synonyms like WARLIKE, HOSTILE, or PUGNACIOUS.
How do I choose the right 'bellicose' answer if there are multiple options?
First, match the letter count. Then, check any intersecting letters from other solved clues. Finally, consider the precise nuance of the clue and the potential answer's fit within the puzzle's theme or other related clues.
Are there any common crossword tricks used with 'bellicose' type clues?
Setters might use informal synonyms (e.g., FIGHTY), words with suffixes (e.g., BELLIGERENTLY), or even cryptic definitions playing on the 'bell' root (e.g., "Sound of war?"). Always be aware of the clue's tone.