complimentary crossword clue – All Crossword Answers
Welcome to Crosswordanswer.co.uk! Below, you'll find comprehensive solutions and explanations for the crossword clue "complimentary". Whether it means "free" or "praising," we've got you covered with answers across various letter counts.
Solutions for "complimentary crossword clue" by Letter Count
4 Letters
FREE: This common answer refers to something provided without cost, aligning with one of the primary meanings of 'complimentary'.
6 Letters
GRATIS: A more formal or jocular way of saying 'free of charge', directly addressing the cost-free aspect of 'complimentary'.
8 Letters
POSITIVE: When 'complimentary' means expressing approval, 'positive' is an excellent fit, indicating a favorable or optimistic sentiment.
9 Letters
LAUDATORY: Directly meaning 'expressing praise or commendation', this answer perfectly captures the 'praising' sense of the word 'complimentary'.
APPROVING: Indicating a favorable opinion or agreement, 'approving' is another strong answer for 'complimentary' when it refers to giving praise or showing acceptance.
More About "complimentary crossword clue"
The word "complimentary" is a fascinating example of a homograph – a word spelled the same but with different meanings and often different pronunciations or origins. In the context of crosswords, this duality makes it a favorite for constructors looking to add a bit of challenge. The two main interpretations are "free of charge" (as in, a complimentary gift) and "expressing a compliment or praise" (as in, a complimentary remark).
Understanding which meaning the clue refers to is crucial for solving. Often, the clue itself or intersecting words will provide the necessary context. For instance, a clue like "no cost" would point to the "free" meaning, while "praising" or "eulogistic" would direct you to the "complimenting" meaning. Always consider both possibilities before settling on an answer, and use the number of letters as a key guide.
This clue is a great illustration of how crosswords test not just your vocabulary, but also your ability to discern subtle nuances in language. Mastering such clues enhances your overall puzzle-solving skills.
Tips For Your Next Puzzle
- Consider Dual Meanings: For words like "complimentary," always think about all possible interpretations. Does it mean "free" or "praising"?
- Check Letter Count First: The number of letters is your most powerful tool. It immediately narrows down potential answers, especially for ambiguous clues.
- Utilize Intersecting Clues: Fill in words you're confident about first. These letters will then provide crucial hints for the trickier, intersecting clues like "complimentary."
- Think of Synonyms: Once you've identified a possible meaning (e.g., "free"), brainstorm as many synonyms as possible (gratis, uncharged, etc.) that fit the letter count.
- Look for Wordplay: Sometimes, clues for dual-meaning words might involve puns or specific phrases that hint at one meaning over the other. Be alert for such linguistic tricks.
For more advice, visit our page on general crossword strategies.
Frequently Asked Questions
What does 'complimentary' mean in a crossword clue?
'Complimentary' is a classic crossword clue word because it has two distinct meanings: 'given or provided free of charge' (like a complimentary breakfast) and 'expressing a compliment; praising' (like a complimentary remark). Crossword constructors often use this ambiguity to create challenging clues.
How do I find crossword answers when I'm stuck on a clue like 'complimentary'?
When stuck, first consider both potential meanings of the word (free vs. praising). Then, check the number of letters required for the answer, as this is often the most critical hint. Look at any intersecting words you've already filled in to narrow down possibilities. Finally, don't hesitate to use a reputable online solver like Crosswordanswer.co.uk for quick help and explanations.
Are there different types of crossword clues for 'complimentary'?
Yes, clues can be direct, like 'Free of charge' for the 'free' meaning, or 'Praising' for the 'complimenting' meaning. They can also be more cryptic, using wordplay or definitions that hint at one of the two main interpretations. For example, 'Said something nice' might lead to a 'complimenting' answer, while 'No charge' would lead to a 'free' answer.