contributory crossword clue – All Crossword Answers
Welcome! If you're looking for answers to the "contributory crossword clue," you've come to the right place. Below you'll find a comprehensive list of solutions, categorized by letter count, along with helpful explanations to get you back on track with your puzzle.
Solutions for "contributory crossword clue" by Letter Count
5 Letters
AIDED: Having provided help or assistance; directly contributing to an outcome.
7 Letters
HELPFUL: Providing useful assistance or support; making a positive contribution.
9 Letters
CAUSATIVE: Acting as a cause; contributing to an effect or result.
10 Letters
SUPPORTING: Providing evidence or assistance for something; acting as a backup or contributing part.
More About "contributory crossword clue"
"Contributory" is a clue that often appears in crosswords, leading solvers to think about words related to assistance, cause, or participation. It implies a role in bringing something about, whether it's helping someone achieve a goal, being a factor in an event, or adding to a collective effort. Understanding this core meaning is key to cracking these clues.
The term can be straightforward, pointing to synonyms like "helpful" or "aiding," or it can be more nuanced, suggesting a "causative" element or something that is "instrumental" in a process. Crossword setters love to play with these shades of meaning, so always consider the number of letters and any existing letters you've filled in to guide your choice.
Context is king when dealing with clues like "contributory." Is the puzzle about finance, where "contributory" might refer to a pension scheme? Or is it a general knowledge puzzle where it refers to a supportive role? Paying attention to the theme and other clues in the puzzle can often provide the subtle hint needed to choose the perfect word.
Tips For Your Next Puzzle
- Analyze the Word Length: The number of letters is your most crucial clue. For 'contributory', if you have a short answer, think of concise synonyms like AIDED. For longer answers, consider more elaborate words like INSTRUMENTAL or SUPPORTING.
- Look for Prefixes/Suffixes: Sometimes, the clue might hint at a common prefix or suffix. Words related to 'contributory' often end in -ING (SUPPORTING) or -IVE (CAUSATIVE), which can help if you have a few letters already.
- Consider Cryptic Meanings: While "contributory" often means helpful, in cryptic crosswords, it might also refer to something that 'adds' to another word, or a word that 'gives' something (a sound, a letter) to form part of the answer. Always read the clue multiple times.
- Check Surrounding Letters: Don't try to solve the clue in isolation. The letters you've already filled in from intersecting words are invaluable. They confirm your suspicions and eliminate incorrect possibilities quickly.
For more advice, visit our page on general crossword strategies.
Frequently Asked Questions
What does 'contributory' mean in a crossword clue?
In a crossword clue, 'contributory' typically suggests an answer related to providing help, assistance, support, or being a partial cause of something. It often points to words like 'helpful,' 'assisting,' 'aiding,' or 'causative,' indicating a role in bringing about an outcome.
How can I find answers to 'contributory' clues if I don't know the exact synonym?
If you're stuck, try thinking about the context of the puzzle (e.g., specific themes or types of clues). Consider synonyms for 'contribute' or 'contribution,' such as 'help,' 'aid,' 'support,' 'cause,' or 'part.' Also, pay attention to the letter count required, as this can narrow down possibilities significantly.
Are there common alternative meanings for 'contributory' in crosswords?
While 'contributory' most often relates to providing help or being a cause, in some cryptic or more complex crosswords, it might subtly hint at something that 'adds to' a whole, or even 'pays into' something (like a contributory pension). Always consider the full clue and any surrounding letters you have filled in.