commencement crossword clue – All Crossword Answers
Welcome! If you're looking for solutions to the "commencement crossword clue," you've come to the right place. We've compiled a comprehensive list of possible answers, sorted by letter count, along with helpful explanations to guide you.
Solutions for "commencement crossword clue" by Letter Count
5 Letters
START: Refers to the beginning or initial point of something, a common synonym for commencement in the sense of 'beginning'.
ONSET: Denotes the beginning of something, especially something unpleasant or difficult.
DEBUT: The first public appearance of a performer or sports player, or the first public showing of a new product or fashion collection.
6 Letters
OUTSET: Means the beginning of something, a direct synonym for the starting point.
LAUNCH: To start or set in motion (an activity or enterprise).
ORIGIN: The point or place where something begins, arises, or is derived.
7 Letters
OPENING: Can refer to the start of an event or period, or a formal inauguration.
9 Letters
BEGINNING: The point in time or space at which something begins, or the first part of an event or period.
10 Letters
GRADUATION: A formal ceremony at which degrees or diplomas are conferred, directly aligning with the academic meaning of 'commencement'.
12 Letters
INAUGURATION: The beginning or introduction of a system, policy, or period; also a formal ceremony to mark the beginning of a new period, office, or building.
More About "commencement crossword clue"
The clue "commencement" is a classic example of a crossword clue that leverages multiple meanings of a single word. In everyday language, "commencement" most commonly refers to a graduation ceremony, particularly in an academic setting. This is why answers like GRADUATION are very strong contenders, especially in longer-letter slots.
However, "commencement" also means "the beginning or start of something." This second, more general meaning opens up a wide range of shorter synonyms such as START, ONSET, OUTSET, and BEGINNING. Crossword constructors often play on this duality, requiring solvers to consider both the specific (academic ceremony) and general (start) interpretations to find the correct fit for the puzzle.
When encountering such clues, it's vital to assess the context provided by other solved letters in the grid. This will help you narrow down whether the clue is seeking a word related to an origin or a formal event. Understanding these nuances is key to mastering crosswords.
Tips For Your Next Puzzle
- Consider Multiple Meanings: Always think about all possible definitions of a clue word, especially for terms like "commencement" that have both general and specific uses.
- Check Letter Count: The number of letters in the answer is your most reliable guide. It immediately eliminates many possibilities.
- Use Context: The letters you've already filled in from intersecting words are invaluable. They often confirm or deny potential answers.
- Think Synonyms and Antonyms: If a direct answer doesn't come to mind, consider synonyms or even antonyms (if the clue implies opposition).
- Expand Your Vocabulary: Regularly reading and exploring new words will naturally improve your crossword-solving ability.
For more advice, visit our page on general crossword strategies.
Frequently Asked Questions
What are the common meanings of 'commencement' in crosswords?
In crosswords, 'commencement' often refers to the 'start,' 'beginning,' 'onset,' or 'outset' of something. However, it can also refer specifically to an 'academic graduation ceremony,' so 'graduation' or 'ceremony' are also common answers.
Why do some crossword clues have multiple possible answers?
Many words in the English language have multiple meanings, synonyms, or can be interpreted in different contexts. Crossword setters leverage this ambiguity to make puzzles more challenging. The surrounding letters in the grid are crucial for determining the correct answer.
How can I quickly find answers for tricky crossword clues like 'commencement'?
First, consider all possible meanings of the clue word. Think about synonyms for each meaning and different word lengths. If stuck, using a crossword solver or a comprehensive resource like Crosswordanswer.co.uk that provides multiple answers and explanations based on letter count can significantly speed up the process.