close to crossword clue – All Crossword Answers
Welcome to Crosswordanswer.co.uk! If you're struggling with the clue "close to crossword clue", you've come to the right place. We provide all possible answers, broken down by letter count, along with helpful explanations to get you back on track with your puzzle.
Solutions for "close to crossword clue" by Letter Count
4 Letters
NEAR: Meaning in proximity, a direct synonym for 'close to'. This is one of the most common solutions for clues indicating closeness.
8 Letters
ADJACENT: Signifies being next to or adjoining something, often used in a more technical or formal context, such as referring to properties or geographical areas.
9 Letters
PROXIMATE: Refers to being close in space, time, or relation; implying immediate proximity. Often used to denote the nearest or most immediate cause or effect.
More About "close to crossword clue"
The clue "close to crossword clue" is a common phrase in crossword puzzles that tests your vocabulary related to proximity and nearness. While "NEAR" is often the most direct and frequent answer, setters frequently use this clue to prompt more sophisticated synonyms depending on the required letter count and the overall theme of the puzzle. Understanding the various nuances of "close to" can unlock many related answers.
Context is key when dealing with clues like "close to." For instance, "close to home" might refer to something personally relevant, rather than physical proximity. Similarly, "close call" refers to a narrow escape. These idiomatic uses add another layer of complexity and fun to crosswords, requiring solvers to think beyond literal definitions.
This type of clue often appears in various daily crosswords, from quick cryptics to more elaborate Sunday puzzles. Being familiar with its common synonyms and idiomatic expressions will significantly improve your solving speed and accuracy.
Tips For Your Next Puzzle
- Consider the Letter Count: Always check the number of boxes provided for the answer. This is your primary guide, helping you eliminate many possibilities.
- Think of Synonyms: For clues like "close to," immediately brainstorm synonyms. The more words you know for a concept, the higher your chances of hitting the correct answer.
- Look at Surrounding Clues: Sometimes, an intersecting word will give you a crucial letter or hint, confirming or refuting your suspected answer.
- Explore Idiomatic Meanings: If a common synonym doesn't fit, consider if the clue is part of an idiom or phrase. Crosswords love to play on words and their multiple meanings.
For more advice, visit our page on general crossword strategies.
Frequently Asked Questions
What are common synonyms for 'close to' in crosswords?
Common synonyms include NEAR, ADJACENT, PROXIMATE, NEIGHBORING, and NIGH. The specific answer depends on the available letters and the puzzle's context.
How does the clue 'close to' differ from 'near' in crossword puzzles?
While often synonymous in meaning, 'close to' is a two-word phrase, whereas 'near' is a single word. Crossword setters will use these based on the required letter count and sometimes, the specific nuance of the clue. Always consider the exact phrasing and the number of letters needed for the solution.
Are there idioms or phrases related to 'close to' that appear in crosswords?
Yes, idioms such as 'CLOSE CALL' (a narrow escape), 'CLOSE QUARTERS' (a confined space), or 'CLOSE TO HOME' (personally relevant) can be clues. These require understanding the idiomatic meaning rather than just the literal definition of 'close to'.