crossword clue agent – All Crossword Answers
Welcome to Crosswordanswer.co.uk! If you're tackling a crossword and the clue "crossword clue agent" has you stumped, you've come to the right place. Below, you'll find a comprehensive list of possible answers, sorted by letter count, along with clear explanations to help you complete your puzzle with ease.
Solutions for "crossword clue agent" by Letter Count
3 Letters
SPY: Someone who secretly gathers information, often for a government or organization.
REP: Short for representative, a common crossword answer for someone acting on behalf of another, particularly in sales or politics.
5 Letters
PROXY: A person authorized to act for another, especially in voting or legal matters; a substitute or delegate.
6 Letters
FACTOR: An agent or a business representative who buys or sells goods on commission; also, an element contributing to a result.
8 Letters
EMISSARY: A person sent on a special mission, usually as a diplomatic representative or a messenger.
9 Letters
OPERATIVE: A secret agent or spy, especially one employed by a government agency for covert operations.
More About "crossword clue agent"
The term "agent" is remarkably versatile, which makes it a frequent but sometimes tricky clue in crosswords. It can refer to a person who acts on behalf of another, such as a real estate agent, a sports agent, or an insurance agent. In a more clandestine context, an agent might be a spy or an operative, working in secrecy to gather intelligence. This dual nature—ranging from public representatives to covert figures—is what crossword constructors often exploit.
Understanding the nuances of "agent" is key. Crossword clues will often provide subtle hints to guide you towards the correct meaning and therefore, the correct answer. For instance, a clue like "Bond, e.g." points towards a spy, while "Salesperson, briefly" would lead you to "REP." Always consider the context, the number of letters, and any intersecting words you've already filled in to narrow down the possibilities.
Beyond human agents, the word can also refer to a force or substance that produces an effect, like a "cleaning agent" or a "coloring agent." While less common in typical "person" clues, it's a good example of the broader semantic field that crossword setters might draw from to add complexity to their puzzles.
Tips For Your Next Puzzle
- Analyze the Clue's Tone: Does the clue for "agent" sound formal, informal, or mysterious? This can help you distinguish between "REP" (informal), "EMISSARY" (formal), or "SPY" (mysterious).
- Check Letter Count First: Always verify the number of letters required. This immediately eliminates many possibilities and significantly narrows down your options for answers like "agent."
- Look for Abbreviations: If the letter count is short (e.g., 3 letters) and the clue is somewhat informal or includes phrases like "briefly" or "for short," consider common abbreviations like "REP."
- Consider Adjacent Words: Use any letters you've already solved from intersecting clues. These existing letters are your most valuable asset in confirming or refuting a potential answer.
For more advice, visit our page on general crossword strategies.
Frequently Asked Questions
What types of "agents" are commonly found in crosswords?
Crossword clues for "agent" can refer to various types, including secret agents (SPY, OPERATIVE), business representatives (REP, FACTOR), or someone acting on behalf of another (PROXY, EMISSARY). The specific context of the clue and the number of letters will guide the answer.
How do I determine the correct "agent" answer if multiple fit the clue?
Look at the length of the required answer and any intersecting letters you've already filled in from other clues. The clue's phrasing might also hint at a specific type of agent (e.g., "secret agent" vs. "sales agent").
Are there common abbreviations for "agent" in crosswords?
Yes, "REP" is a very common abbreviation for a representative or agent. Another could be "G-MAN" for a government agent. Always consider abbreviated forms if the clue or length suggests it.