What does 'caprice' mean in a crossword context?

In crosswords, 'caprice' typically refers to a sudden and unaccountable change of mood or behavior, a whim, or an impulse. Synonyms like whim, fancy, vagary, or notion are common answers.

How can I find the correct length for 'caprice' answers?

The length of the answer is determined by the number of squares in the crossword grid. If you have an answer like WHIM, it's 4 letters. For FANCY, it's 5 letters. Always match the word's character count to the available squares.

Are there common alternative meanings for 'caprice' in crosswords?

While 'whim' or 'fancy' are primary, sometimes a clue might hint at 'capricious' behavior, leading to answers like ERRATIC or UNPREDICTABLE. Context from other solved letters is key.

caprice crossword clue – All Crossword Answers

Welcome to Crosswordanswer.co.uk! If you're stuck on the clue "caprice," you've come to the right place. Below you'll find all possible solutions organized by letter count, along with helpful explanations to boost your crossword-solving skills.

Solutions for "caprice crossword clue" by Letter Count

4 Letters

WHIM: A sudden desire or change of mind, especially one that is unusual or unexplained.

5 Letters

FANCY: A superficial or transient feeling of liking or attraction; a whim or passing inclination.

HUMOR: A state of mind or disposition; often implying a changeable or whimsical nature (e.g., in a "good humor").

6 Letters

VAGARY: An unpredictable or erratic action, occurrence, or inclination.

NOTION: A conception of or belief about something; sometimes used to describe a sudden, passing idea or impulse.

WHIMSY: Playfully quaint or fanciful behavior or humor; an odd or fanciful idea.

7 Letters

IMPULSE: A sudden strong and unreflective urge or desire to act.

More About "caprice crossword clue"

The term "caprice" originates from the Italian word "capriccio," which literally means "goat's leap" or "shudder," suggesting something sudden, unpredictable, and perhaps a bit flighty. In English, it evolved to describe a sudden and seemingly unmotivated change in mood or behavior, or a whim. This makes it a popular clue in crosswords, as it has several close synonyms that fit various letter counts.

Understanding the nuances of "caprice" can help you solve related crossword clues. It often implies a lack of reason or foresight in a decision or action. For instance, a person might act on a caprice, meaning they are following a sudden, irrational inclination rather than a well-thought-out plan. Recognizing this core meaning will guide you towards answers like WHIM, FANCY, VAGARY, or IMPULSE, depending on the specific puzzle context and letter count.

Tips For Your Next Puzzle

Analyze the Word Length: Always check the number of available squares first. For "caprice," a 4-letter answer immediately points to WHIM, whereas a 6-letter slot might suggest VAGARY or NOTION.
Consider Synonyms and Related Concepts: Crossword setters love synonyms. Think of all words that mean 'whim' or 'sudden change'. Also consider adjectives derived from the word, like 'capricious' (meaning whimsical or fickle), as they can sometimes hint at the noun form.
Use Intersecting Letters: Don't try to solve "caprice" in isolation. Look at the letters from intersecting words you've already solved. These confirmed letters are your strongest hints for narrowing down the possibilities.

For more advice, visit our page on general crossword strategies.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the most common answer for 'caprice' in crosswords?

The most common answer for 'caprice' is usually WHIM (4 letters) or FANCY (5 letters), due to their direct synonymy and frequent appearance in puzzles.

Can 'caprice' ever refer to something artistic?

Yes, in art and music, a 'capriccio' (from which 'caprice' derives) refers to a lively, free, and often whimsical piece. While less common in standard crosswords, it might appear in themed puzzles or as a more obscure definition.

How do I differentiate between similar answers like 'whim' and 'impulse'?

While both are sudden, a 'whim' often implies a playful or irrational desire, whereas an 'impulse' suggests a stronger, often compelling urge to act. The context of the surrounding clues and the puzzle's theme can help you choose the best fit.