clever or skilful crossword clue – All Crossword Answers
Welcome to Crosswordanswer.co.uk! If you're looking for solutions to the clue "clever or skilful crossword clue", you've come to the right place. We provide accurate answers, explanations, and helpful tips to get you unstuck and sharpen your crossword-solving abilities.
Solutions for "clever or skilful crossword clue" by Letter Count
5 Letters
ADEPT: Highly skilled or proficient at something.
6 Letters
ARTFUL: Clever or skillful, especially in a cunning or crafty way.
WIZARD: A person who is very good at something.
7 Letters
SKILFUL: Having or showing skill.
9 Letters
INGENIOUS: Clever, original, and inventive.
DEXTEROUS: Demonstrating great skill or adroitness.
More About "clever or skilful crossword clue"
The words "clever" and "skilful" are frequently used in crossword clues to point towards answers that denote capability, intelligence, or expertise. While "clever" often implies mental agility, ingenuity, or quick wit, "skilful" more directly refers to proficiency gained through practice, training, or natural aptitude, particularly in a practical sense.
When you encounter a clue like "clever or skilful," it's essential to consider the nuance of the synonyms. A setter might be looking for a word that highlights cunning (e.g., ARTFUL), general ability (e.g., ADEPT), or inventive problem-solving (e.g., INGENIOUS). The length of the answer and any crossing letters will be your best guides in narrowing down the possibilities.
These types of clues are fundamental to crosswords, testing your vocabulary range related to human abilities and intellectual traits. They can often be straightforward synonyms but sometimes require a deeper understanding of the subtle differences between words that appear similar at first glance.
Tips For Your Next Puzzle
- Analyze the Nuance: For clues like "clever or skilful," consider if the setter leans more towards mental sharpness (clever) or practical ability (skilful). This can help you differentiate between answers like 'ASTUTE' (clever) vs. 'PROFICIENT' (skilful).
- Check Letter Count: Always use the given letter count as your primary filter. It immediately narrows down the pool of potential answers significantly.
- Look for Common Crossword Synonyms: Familiarize yourself with words frequently appearing as answers for "clever" or "skilful" across different puzzles, such as ADEPT, ARTFUL, CUNNING, EXPERT, or ABLE.
- Consider Cryptic Hints: If it's a cryptic crossword, the clue might contain hidden instructions (anagrams, reversals, hidden words) that signify the "cleverness" of the answer's construction.
For more advice, visit our page on general crossword strategies.
Frequently Asked Questions
What's the difference between 'clever' and 'skilful' in crosswords?
While both imply intelligence or ability, 'clever' often relates to mental agility, ingenuity, or quick wit, whereas 'skilful' specifically refers to proficiency developed through practice or training, particularly in practical tasks or arts. Crossword setters might use 'clever' to hint at anagrams or wordplay, and 'skilful' for more direct synonyms of ability.
How can I improve my ability to solve 'clever' crossword clues?
Improving with 'clever' clues often involves recognizing common crossword tricks: anagrams, hidden words, reversals, homophones, and double definitions. Practice is key, along with building a strong vocabulary and familiarity with cryptic crossword conventions if applicable. Pay close attention to subtle wording and punctuation in the clue.
Are there common synonyms for 'skilful' in crosswords?
Yes, common synonyms for 'skilful' often include ADEPT, EXPERT, PROFICIENT, ABLE, MASTERFUL, DEXTEROUS, or ACCOMPLISHED. The specific answer will depend on the number of letters required and any additional contextual hints in the clue.