crossword clue circuitous – All Crossword Answers
Welcome to Crosswordanswer.co.uk! If you're stuck on the clue "circuitous," you've come to the right place. Below you'll find all possible solutions, organized by letter count, along with clear explanations to help you complete your puzzle with ease.
Solutions for "crossword clue circuitous" by Letter Count
7 Letters
WINDING: Referring to something that follows a twisting, turning course, much like a circuitous path.
8 Letters
INDIRECT: Not following a direct line or course; deviating from the straight path. A common synonym for circuitous.
TORTUOUS: Full of twists and turns; excessively lengthy and complex. Often used to describe a very circuitous route or argument.
10 Letters
ROUNDABOUT: Not direct or straightforward. Implies a longer, more circuitous route or method.
More About "crossword clue circuitous"
"Circuitous" describes something that follows a long and indirect route or course. It often implies a deviation from the most direct path, whether physically, in a conversation, or even in a thought process. When encountered in a crossword puzzle, the clue typically points to synonyms that capture this sense of indirectness, twists, and turns.
The word itself originates from the Latin 'circuitus', meaning 'a going around'. This etymology perfectly encapsulates its meaning, suggesting a journey or process that loops back on itself or takes an unnecessarily long way to reach its destination. Understanding this core meaning is key to deciphering related clues in future puzzles, as many variations of the concept can appear.
Crossword setters love words like "circuitous" because they offer a rich vocabulary of synonyms that can fit various letter counts. From concise answers like 'winding' to longer ones like 'roundabout' or 'meandering', the breadth of related terms provides fertile ground for challenging yet solvable clues. Always consider both the literal and figurative interpretations of the word.
Tips For Your Next Puzzle
- Look at the Clue's Context: While "circuitous" generally means indirect, consider if the clue hints at a physical path, a conversation, or a method. This can help narrow down suitable synonyms.
- Check for Letter Count Matches: Once you have a few potential synonyms in mind (e.g., INDIRECT, WINDING, TORTUOUS), count their letters and see which ones fit the blank spaces in your puzzle.
- Cross-Reference with Intersecting Words: The most reliable way to confirm an answer is to see if its letters fit with the answers of crossing clues. If a letter matches, you're likely on the right track!
- Think of Figurative Meanings: Some clues might use 'circuitous' to describe an argument or a narrative, not just a physical route. Broaden your thinking beyond the most obvious interpretations.
For more advice, visit our page on general crossword strategies.
Frequently Asked Questions
What does 'circuitous' mean in a crossword context?
In crosswords, 'circuitous' typically refers to something that is not direct, taking a winding or roundabout path. Common answers include synonyms like INDIRECT, WINDING, TORTUOUS, or ROUNDABOUT.
How many letters are common for 'circuitous' answers?
Answers for 'circuitous' can vary in length. For instance, WINDING is 7 letters, INDIRECT and TORTUOUS are 8 letters, and ROUNDABOUT is 10 letters. Always check the available spaces in your puzzle.
Can 'circuitous' also refer to an argument or reasoning?
Yes, 'circuitous' isn't just about physical paths. It can describe a line of reasoning or an argument that is indirect, lengthy, or unnecessarily complicated, avoiding a direct approach to the subject.