capricious crossword clue – All Crossword Answers
Welcome to Crosswordanswer.co.uk! If you're stuck on the 'capricious' crossword clue, you've come to the right place. Below you'll find a comprehensive list of possible answers, organized by letter count, along with clear explanations to help you complete your puzzle with ease.
Solutions for "capricious crossword clue" by Letter Count
6 Letters
FICKLE: Describes someone or something that changes frequently, especially in loyalty, interest, or affection.
7 Letters
ERRATIC: Refers to something that is not regular or consistent in movement, behavior, or quality, often characterized by sudden, unpredictable changes.
9 Letters
WHIMSICAL: Often used for playful, quaintly fanciful, or unpredictable behavior, fitting for 'capricious'.
MERCURIAL: Means subject to sudden or unpredictable changes of mood or mind, akin to the Roman god Mercury's swiftness and unpredictability.
More About "capricious crossword clue"
"Capricious" describes a tendency to change one's mind or behavior abruptly and without apparent reason. It implies unpredictability and impulsiveness, often with a negative connotation suggesting unreliability or flightiness. In crosswords, clues for 'capricious' will almost always point to words that convey this sense of frequent and illogical change.
Understanding the core meaning of "capricious" is key to unlocking its crossword answers. Think about scenarios where moods, decisions, or weather patterns might be described as 'capricious.' This helps in brainstorming synonyms like 'fickle' (prone to changing loyalties), 'erratic' (unpredictable in pattern), or 'whimsical' (playfully unpredictable).
The word stems from the Italian 'capriccio,' meaning 'a sudden start or whim,' which in turn might be linked to 'capra' (goat), suggesting a goat's sudden leaps. This etymology further emphasizes the abrupt, unpredictable nature of being capricious, a trait often explored in literature and daily life.
Tips For Your Next Puzzle
- Context is King: Always look at the surrounding clues and any already-filled letters. These can provide vital hints about the required word length or specific letters, helping you narrow down 'capricious' answers.
- Brainstorm Synonyms: For a word like 'capricious,' immediately think of as many synonyms as possible – unpredictable, moody, fickle, changeable, whimsical, erratic, mercurial. Then, match these against the available letter counts in your puzzle.
- Consider Nuance: Crossword setters often play on subtle differences in meaning. While 'fickle' and 'whimsical' both relate to 'capricious,' 'fickle' often implies unreliability in relationships, while 'whimsical' suggests playful unpredictability. Knowing these nuances can guide your choice.
- Check Word Lengths: If you have an answer that fits the meaning but not the number of letters, it's likely incorrect. Always double-check the exact letter count required by the grid.
For more advice, visit our page on general crossword strategies.
Frequently Asked Questions
What does 'capricious' mean in a crossword context?
In crosswords, 'capricious' typically points to synonyms related to changeability, unpredictability, or impulsiveness. Common answers include FICKLE, ERRATIC, WHIMSICAL, or MERCURIAL. The clue implies a lack of steady purpose, mood, or behavior.
How can I identify a 'capricious' clue in a crossword?
Look for synonyms that imply sudden changes, instability, or a whimsical nature. Often, clues might also include phrases like 'prone to change,' 'unpredictable,' 'fickle,' or 'changing mood.' The context of other solved letters in the puzzle can also help narrow down the possibilities based on length and intersecting words.
Are there common synonyms for 'capricious' used in crosswords?
Yes, beyond the most common, other synonyms that might appear include VOLATILE, INCONSTANT, CHANCEABLE, and ARBITRARY. The key is to think about words that convey unpredictability, sudden shifts in behavior or state, or a tendency to act on whims.