crossword clue cheek – All Crossword Answers
Welcome! If you're stuck on the crossword clue "cheek," you've come to the right place. We provide a comprehensive list of solutions, organized by letter count, along with clear explanations to help you complete your puzzle with ease.
Solutions for "crossword clue cheek" by Letter Count
4 Letters
GALL: Audacity or impertinence.
5 Letters
NERVE: Boldness, often rude.
8 Letters
AUDACITY: Boldness or daring, especially with rude or disrespectful implications.
9 Letters
IMPUDENCE: The quality of being impudent; impertinence.
10 Letters
EFFRONTERY: Shameless or impudent boldness.
More About "crossword clue cheek"
The word "cheek" is a fascinating clue in crosswords due to its multiple meanings. While it can refer to an anatomical part of the face or body, its most common usage in puzzles often points to the concept of impudence, audacity, or disrespectful boldness. This polysemous nature means solvers must pay close attention to the context provided by the rest of the clue to pinpoint the correct interpretation.
Crossword setters frequently employ this word to test a solver's vocabulary depth concerning synonyms for insolence. Answers like GALL, NERVE, or IMPUDENCE are prime examples of this. Understanding these nuances not only helps in solving the current puzzle but also builds a stronger foundation for tackling future challenges involving similar wordplay.
Tips For Your Next Puzzle
- Analyze the Clue's Tone: If "cheek" is paired with words implying rudeness or daring, lean towards answers like GALL or NERVE. If it's more descriptive of a body part, look for anatomical terms.
- Check Letter Count First: Always verify the number of letters required. This immediately narrows down possibilities, allowing you to focus on answers that fit the length, like AUDACITY for eight letters or IMPUDENCE for nine.
- Cross-Reference with Intersecting Words: The most reliable way to confirm an answer is to see if it fits seamlessly with intersecting words. Even if an answer seems plausible for "cheek," it must align with the letters already placed from other clues.
For more advice, visit our page on general crossword strategies.
Frequently Asked Questions
Why does "cheek" have so many different crossword answers?
The word "cheek" is polysemous, meaning it has multiple distinct meanings. In crosswords, it can refer to a part of the face, a buttock, or, most commonly, to impudence or impertinence. This versatility allows setters to use it for a wide range of synonyms depending on the context and required letter count.
How can I distinguish between the meanings of "cheek" in a crossword?
Pay close attention to surrounding words in the clue (e.g., "facial feature," "boldness," "rear"). Also, consider the number of letters. Shorter answers like GALL or NERVE often relate to audacity, while anatomical clues might lead to different answers or be more explicit.
Are there common patterns for "cheek" clues related to impudence?
Yes, clues for "cheek" as impudence often involve synonyms like "nerve," "gall," "brass," "impudence," or "effrontery." They might also use phrases like "boldness," "audacity," "impertinence," or "disrespect." Look for synonyms related to defiant or rude behavior.