crossword clue big cat – All Crossword Answers
Welcome to Crosswordanswer.co.uk! If you're tackling the clue "big cat" in your crossword puzzle, you've come to the right place. Below you'll find a comprehensive list of all possible answers, organized by letter count, along with helpful explanations to ensure you find the perfect fit for your puzzle.
Solutions for "crossword clue big cat" by Letter Count
4 Letters
LION: A large carnivorous feline mammal, often called the 'king of the jungle'.
PUMA: A large, slender American feline, also known as a cougar or mountain lion.
5 Letters
TIGER: A large, solitary cat recognized by its distinctive striped coat.
6 Letters
JAGUAR: The largest native cat species of the New World, known for its rosette patterns.
7 Letters
LEOPARD: A large, solitary, and nocturnal cat with a spotted coat, found in Africa and Asia.
CHEETAH: The fastest land animal, known for its slender body and spotted fur.
PANTHER: A general term for a large black feline, often a melanistic leopard or jaguar.
More About "big cat"
The term "big cat" in a crossword puzzle usually refers to any of the larger wild species within the Felidae family, excluding domestic cats. These magnificent creatures are popular subjects in crosswords due to their global recognition and distinct characteristics. Clues for "big cat" can vary from straightforward to more cryptic, sometimes hinting at a specific feature like stripes (TIGER) or speed (CHEETAH).
Beyond the literal animals, "big cat" can sometimes be used metaphorically or in more playful clues, but in most standard crosswords, it points to the well-known felines. Familiarity with common species across different continents (e.g., LIONs in Africa, TIGERs in Asia, JAGUARs in the Americas) is highly beneficial when solving such clues, especially when considering the number of letters or intersecting words.
Tips For Your Next Puzzle
- Count the Letters: Always start by checking the number of blank spaces in your crossword grid. This immediately narrows down the possible answers for a clue like "big cat" to only those with the correct letter count.
- Check Intersecting Letters: Use any letters you've already filled in from other clues. These intersecting letters are crucial for confirming or eliminating potential answers. For example, if you have an 'O' in the second position for a 4-letter big cat, LION becomes a strong contender.
- Consider Variations & Synonyms: For common clues, be aware that there might be multiple correct answers depending on the crossword setter's preference. For 'big cat', beyond the primary species, terms like PUMA or PANTHER are also frequently used.
- Think Broadly About Categories: Sometimes a clue like "big cat" might have an answer that is technically a 'medium' cat, but is still large compared to a domestic cat and fits the puzzle's theme or letter count.
For more advice, visit our page on general crossword strategies.
Frequently Asked Questions
What makes a good crossword answer for 'big cat'?
A good answer for 'big cat' clues often refers to common large feline species like LION, TIGER, or LEOPARD. The key is to match the number of letters required by the puzzle and consider any intersecting letters you already have filled in. Context from other clues can also narrow down the options.
Are 'panther' and 'jaguar' the same in crosswords?
While 'panther' is a general term often used for large black cats (specifically melanistic leopards or jaguars), they are distinct answers in crosswords based on their letter count and specific meaning. PANTHER has 7 letters, while JAGUAR has 6. Always check the required length and specific phrasing of the clue.
How can I find answers to short crossword clues like 'big cat' quickly?
When faced with short, common clues, first consider the most iconic associations. For 'big cat', LION or TIGER are usually good starting points. Then, check the number of letters required for your puzzle. Websites like Crosswordanswer.co.uk provide instant solutions organized by letter length, making it fast to find the correct fit for your specific puzzle.