crossword clue close friend – All Crossword Answers
Welcome to Crosswordanswer.co.uk! If you're stuck on the clue "close friend" in your crossword puzzle, you've come to the right place. Below, you'll find a comprehensive list of possible answers, organized by letter count, along with helpful explanations to guide you to the correct solution.
Solutions for "crossword clue close friend" by Letter Count
3 Letters
PAL: A common informal term for a friend or companion.
4 Letters
MATE: A term for a close friend or companion, especially in British English.
CHUM: An informal term for a close friend or companion.
ALLY: Someone who supports you, often in a difficult situation.
5 Letters
BUDDY: An informal term for a close friend or companion.
7 Letters
COMRADE: A companion who shares one's activities or is a fellow member of a group, often implying shared struggles.
8 Letters
INTIMATE: A very close friend, implying a deep personal connection and shared secrets.
COMPADRE: A close friend or companion, often used informally, especially in Spanish-speaking contexts.
9 Letters
CONFIDANT: A person with whom one shares secrets or private matters, trusting them not to repeat them.
More About "crossword clue close friend"
"Close friend" is a classic crossword clue that can have a surprising number of valid answers, depending on the specific context, the number of letters, and even the region where the puzzle originated. These answers often convey different nuances of friendship, from casual companionship (like PAL or BUDDY) to deep, trusting relationships (such as CONFIDANT or INTIMATE). The variety in answers makes this clue a good test of a solver's vocabulary and their ability to think about synonyms and related concepts.
Understanding these subtle differences can be key to selecting the correct word. For instance, while 'CHUM' might fit a short slot, 'COMRADE' suggests a bond forged through shared experiences or common goals. Always consider the puzzle's theme or any other solved letters that might help narrow down the possibilities. This multi-faceted nature of the clue 'close friend' is what makes it both challenging and rewarding to solve.
Tips For Your Next Puzzle
- Check Letter Count: Always verify the number of letters in the grid against your proposed answer. This is the most common and effective filtering method for clues like "close friend" with multiple solutions.
- Consider Regional Variations: Words like 'MATE' (more common in the UK and Australia) or 'BUDDY' (more prevalent in the US) can sometimes hint at the puzzle's origin or style.
- Look for Cross-References: If a word fits horizontally, ensure it makes sense vertically with intersecting words. This is the ultimate confirmation for any crossword answer.
- Think Beyond the Obvious: Sometimes the answer isn't a direct synonym but a term that describes the relationship or role. For example, an 'ALLY' isn't just a friend, but a supporter in a specific context.
For more advice, visit our page on general crossword strategies.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the shortest answer for "close friend"?
The shortest common answer for "close friend" is PAL, which has 3 letters.
How do I know if the answer is BUDDY or MATE?
Both BUDDY (5 letters) and MATE (4 letters) are common. The key is the letter count required by the puzzle. Additionally, 'MATE' is often used in British English contexts, while 'BUDDY' is more common in American English, which might be a subtle hint if you know the puzzle's origin.
When would "CONFIDANT" be the correct answer for "close friend"?
"CONFIDANT" is a 9-letter answer that implies a very deep level of trust, specifically someone with whom you share secrets and private matters. If the clue hints at secrecy or deep trust, or if the grid requires a 9-letter word, this would be a strong candidate.