brackets crossword clue – All Crossword Answers
Welcome to Crosswordanswer.co.uk! If you're stuck on the "brackets" crossword clue, you've come to the right place. We provide quick and accurate solutions along with helpful explanations to get you back on track.
Solutions for "brackets crossword clue" by Letter Count
5 Letters
ANGLE: Refers to angle brackets (<>), often used in computing or for mathematical notation.
6 Letters
PARENS: A common abbreviation for parentheses, the round brackets ( ).
BRACES: Refers to the curly brackets { }, frequently used in programming or sets.
7 Letters
SQUARES: Commonly denotes square brackets [ ], used for various purposes like editorial insertions.
11 Letters
PARENTHESES: The full term for the round brackets ( ), typically used for an inserted word or phrase.
10 Letters
ENCLOSURES: A more general term for anything that encloses or contains, which brackets fundamentally do.
More About "brackets crossword clue"
The term "brackets" in crossword puzzles can be a versatile clue, pointing to various forms of punctuation or structural elements. While most commonly referring to the round parentheses (), the square brackets [], or the curly braces {}, it's important to consider context and letter count to narrow down the exact answer. Sometimes, even angle brackets <> can be the intended solution, especially in more technical or niche puzzles.
Crossword setters love to play on words and the multiple meanings of a single term. For "brackets," they might clue it directly as a noun, or indirectly hint at its function, such as 'enclosures' or 'things that hold text.' Always cross-reference with surrounding letters and other solved clues to ensure you're placing the correct bracket type.
Tips For Your Next Puzzle
- Count Letters Carefully: This is paramount for "brackets" clues. Knowing if you need a 5-letter, 6-letter, 7-letter, or 11-letter word immediately cuts down the possibilities.
- Consider the Type: Think about the different types of brackets (round, square, curly, angle) and their common names or abbreviations. 'Parens' is a common shortcut.
- Look for Contextual Clues: Sometimes the surrounding words in the clue or the puzzle's theme might hint at a specific field (e.g., mathematics, computing, grammar) that favors one type of bracket over another.
- Think Beyond Punctuation: While less common, "brackets" can sometimes refer to a "bracket" in a tournament (e.g., a competition structure) or a "bracket" in a sporting sense, though this would typically be indicated by other words in the clue.
For more advice, visit our page on general crossword strategies.
Frequently Asked Questions
What are the different types of brackets in crosswords?
In crosswords, 'brackets' can refer to various symbols like parentheses (round brackets), square brackets, curly braces, and angle brackets. The specific type often depends on the clue's context or the answer's length, or even a more general term for enclosures.
How can the number of letters help solve a 'brackets' clue?
The number of letters is crucial for 'brackets' clues. For example, 'PARENS' and 'BRACES' are 6 letters, 'SQUARES' is 7 letters, 'ANGLE' is 5 letters, and 'PARENTHESES' is 11 letters. Knowing the required length immediately narrows down the possibilities and helps you identify the correct type of bracket.
Are bracket clues often cryptic?
Yes, 'brackets' can appear in cryptic clues, sometimes hinting at enclosure or containment. For example, a word 'inside' another word might be cryptically clued as 'bracketed' or 'enclosed by'. Always consider the literal and figurative meanings.