clever crossword clue – All Crossword Answers
Welcome to Crosswordanswer.co.uk! Below, you'll find comprehensive answers and detailed explanations for the crossword clue "clever crossword clue". We've gathered all possible solutions, organized by letter count, to help you complete your puzzle with ease.
Solutions for "clever crossword clue" by Letter Count
3 Letters
SLY: A cunning or artful characteristic, often used to describe someone clever in a subtle way.
5 Letters
WITTY: Quick and inventive verbal humor, indicating a sharp and clever mind.
6 Letters
ARTFUL: Clever or skillful, especially in a devious or resourceful manner.
9 Letters
INGENIOUS: Very clever and original, particularly in the design or invention of something.
More About "clever crossword clue"
A "clever crossword clue" is a staple in many puzzles, challenging solvers to think beyond simple definitions. These clues often employ wordplay, double meanings, or misdirection, making the solution satisfyingly elusive until the 'aha!' moment. Understanding the different forms of cleverness in clues – from puns and anagrams to hidden words and cryptic indicators – is key to mastering them.
Such clues test not just vocabulary but also lateral thinking and attention to detail. They can refer to a person's intelligence, an ingenious invention, or even a tricky maneuver. Context within the puzzle, particularly any crossing letters you've already found, is crucial for discerning which shade of "clever" the clue is hinting at.
At Crosswordanswer.co.uk, we aim to provide not just the answers, but also the insight into why a particular solution fits. This helps you not only finish your current puzzle but also sharpen your skills for future challenges, especially when encountering similar "clever" clues.
Tips For Your Next Puzzle
- Examine Wordplay: For "clever" clues, always consider if the clue is playing on words. Look for homophones (words that sound alike), anagrams (rearranged letters), or hidden words (letters contained within the clue itself).
- Consider Multiple Meanings: Many words have several definitions. A clever clue might use a less common meaning of a word or phrase to lead you astray. Think broadly about all possible interpretations.
- Pay Attention to Punctuation and Grammar: Unusual punctuation or grammatical constructs in a clue can often signal a non-literal interpretation. For example, a period mid-clue might indicate two separate parts of the answer.
- Leverage Crossing Letters: The most effective strategy. Even a single letter from an intersecting word can drastically narrow down the possibilities for a tricky, clever clue.
For more advice, visit our page on general crossword strategies.
Frequently Asked Questions
What makes a crossword clue "clever"?
A clever crossword clue often uses wordplay, puns, double meanings, or misdirection to challenge the solver beyond a simple definition. It might rely on cryptic elements or reinterpreting common phrases.
How do I identify wordplay in crossword clues?
Look for unusual punctuation, capitalization, or phrases that seem out of place. Words like "might," "could," "perhaps," or indicators like "sound of," "anagram of," or "a type of" often hint at wordplay.
What if I'm stuck on a really clever clue?
Try breaking down the clue into parts, thinking about synonyms for each word, or considering if the clue is a homophone, anagram, or hidden word. Sometimes, leaving it and coming back later, or getting a few crossing letters, can reveal the answer.