crossword cable – All Crossword Answers
Welcome! If you're tackling a crossword and the clue is "crossword cable", you've come to the right place. This page provides all known solutions, complete with explanations, to help you complete your puzzle efficiently.
Solutions for "crossword cable" by Letter Count
4 Letters
WIRE: A common synonym for a cable, especially for electrical or data transmission.
CORD: A flexible electric cable with a plug, often used for appliances.
ROPE: A thick, strong cord or cable used for various purposes, often used metaphorically for connections.
7 Letters
MESSAGE: In crosswords, 'cable' often refers to a telegram or a message sent by wire, particularly across an ocean.
8 Letters
TELEGRAM: An older term for a message sent by telegraph, often clued as 'cable' due to its historical method of transmission.
More About "crossword cable"
The clue "crossword cable" is a classic example of how crossword setters use words with multiple meanings to create challenging puzzles. While most people immediately think of a physical wire or rope when they hear "cable," its less common but equally valid historical meaning as a "telegram" or "message" is frequently exploited in crosswords.
This dual nature of the word "cable" allows for a wide range of answer lengths and can easily trip up solvers who only consider its primary definition. Understanding these nuances is key to mastering crossword puzzles and appreciating the cleverness of their construction. Always be prepared to consider both the literal and figurative (or archaic) meanings of a word.
Historically, a "cablegram" or "cable" was a message sent via submarine telegraph cables, connecting continents and enabling rapid communication across vast distances. This context often provides the key to unlocking answers like MESSAGE or TELEGRAM when a physical cable synonym doesn't fit the letter count.
Tips For Your Next Puzzle
- Consider Alternative Meanings: For clues like "cable," always think beyond the most obvious definition. Many words have surprising secondary or archaic meanings.
- Check Letter Count First: If your initial thought for "cable" (e.g., WIRE, CORD) doesn't fit the number of squares, it's a strong hint to look for alternative meanings like MESSAGE or TELEGRAM.
- Look for Contextual Hints: The rest of the clue might provide clues. Words such as "dispatch," "news," "sent," or "across the ocean" can strongly suggest the "message" meaning of "cable."
- Think Synonyms: Even within a meaning, think broadly about synonyms. For "physical cable," words like WIRE, CORD, ROPE, LINE might fit. For "message," consider LETTER, DISPATCH, or COMMUNIQUÉ.
For more advice, visit our page on general crossword strategies.
Frequently Asked Questions
Why does 'cable' appear in crosswords with different meanings?
The word 'cable' has multiple definitions: a thick rope or wire, and historically, a telegram. Crossword setters often leverage these varied meanings to create clever and challenging clues, requiring solvers to consider context.
What are common pitfalls when solving 'cable' clues?
A common pitfall is to only think of 'cable' as a physical wire. Always consider its alternative meaning as a 'telegram' or 'message,' especially if the letter count doesn't fit a physical cable synonym. Pay close attention to the clue's phrasing.
How can I identify if 'cable' refers to a message?
Look for contextual clues in the puzzle. If the clue has words like 'dispatch,' 'news,' 'sent,' 'communication,' 'urgent,' or refers to something historical or transatlantic, it's highly likely to be referring to a message or telegram rather than a physical cable.