compass crossword clue – All Crossword Answers
Welcome! You've landed on the definitive resource for solving 'compass crossword clue'. We provide all potential answers, categorized by letter count, along with clear explanations to help you complete your puzzle. Dive in and find your solution!
Solutions for "compass crossword clue" by Letter Count
4 Letters
ROSE: Refers to the compass rose, the diagram on a compass showing directions.
5 Letters
NORTH: A primary cardinal direction pointed to by a compass.
6 Letters
NEEDLE: The magnetic part of a compass that indicates direction.
7 Letters
BEARING: A direction or position determined using a compass.
9 Letters
DIRECTION: The general line of movement or orientation that a compass provides.
More About "compass crossword clue"
The term "compass" is a surprisingly versatile clue in crosswords, often referring not just to the navigational instrument itself but also to its various components, functions, or associated concepts. This can range from the cardinal directions it points to (NORTH, SOUTH, EAST, WEST) to specific parts like the NEEDLE or the overall output, such as a BEARING or DIRECTION.
Crossword setters frequently use "compass" to test your knowledge of synonyms for guidance or orientation, or even play on words like "drawing compass" for geometric tools. Understanding these nuances is key to cracking more complex puzzles. Always consider the word length and any crossing letters to narrow down the possibilities efficiently.
Whether it's a simple direction or a more obscure nautical term related to navigation, clues involving a compass are a staple in many puzzles, from daily quick crosswords to challenging cryptic ones. Our comprehensive list aims to cover the most common and tricky answers you might encounter.
Tips For Your Next Puzzle
- Analyze the Clue's Nuance: Does the clue refer to a part of the compass (e.g., "Compass pointer"), a function (e.g., "Compass's purpose"), or a result (e.g., "Compass reading")? This helps distinguish between answers like NEEDLE, DIRECTION, or BEARING.
- Consider Cardinal Directions: Often, short answers for "compass" clues are one of the four cardinal points: NORTH, SOUTH, EAST, WEST. Don't forget their single-letter abbreviations (N, S, E, W) for very short answers.
- Look for Wordplay: Be alert for clues that might be puns or clever wordplay on the word "compass" itself, such as referring to a drawing compass (like the answer "ARC" if the clue implies drawing circles).
- Check Cross-References: Always use intersecting words to confirm your answer. If you're unsure between two possible answers for 'compass', see which one fits best with the letters from perpendicular clues.
For more advice, visit our page on general crossword strategies.
Frequently Asked Questions
What's the most common compass-related crossword answer?
The most common compass-related answers often revolve around the cardinal directions (NORTH, SOUTH, EAST, WEST) or the word "ROSE" (referring to the compass rose). Short answers like "N", "S", "E", "W" are also very frequent.
How do I differentiate between "direction" and "bearing" as answers?
While both are related to what a compass provides, "direction" is a more general term for an orientation, whereas "bearing" is a more specific, technical term for a direction measured from a fixed point, often used in navigation. The clue's phrasing usually indicates which is more appropriate.
Can "compass" ever refer to something other than navigation in crosswords?
Yes, sometimes "compass" clues refer to a pair of dividers or a drawing instrument used to draw circles, often called a 'pair of compasses'. In such cases, answers like "ARC" or "CIRCLE" could be relevant depending on the specific phrasing of the clue.