crossword clue criminal – All Crossword Answers
Welcome to Crosswordanswer.co.uk! If you're stuck on the clue "criminal," you've come to the right place. We provide quick, accurate solutions with explanations to help you complete your puzzle efficiently.
Solutions for "crossword clue criminal" by Letter Count
4 Letters
CRIM: An informal term for a criminal.
5 Letters
THIEF: Someone who steals property, a common synonym for criminal.
FELON: A person who has committed a felony.
CROOK: An informal term for a dishonest person or criminal.
6 Letters
GUILTY: Adjudged to have committed a crime, often associated with a criminal.
7 Letters
CULPRIT: A person who is responsible for an offense or misdeed.
8 Letters
OFFENDER: A person who commits an illegal act.
10 Letters
LAWBREAKER: A person who violates the law.
More About "crossword clue criminal"
The term "criminal" in crosswords can be surprisingly versatile, requiring solvers to consider various aspects of unlawful behavior. From the act itself to the person committing it, clues can point to specific roles like a 'thief' or 'burglar', or more general terms like 'felon' or 'offender'. The letter count is often the most critical hint, as many synonyms for "criminal" share similar meanings but differ in length.
Crossword setters also love to play with the nuance of 'criminal' by hinting at different types of crimes (e.g., 'arsonist' for fire-related, or 'smuggler' for contraband). Sometimes, the clue might even refer to the state of being a criminal, or actions associated with criminality, such as 'guilty'. Always think broadly about the scope of the word when tackling such clues.
Tips For Your Next Puzzle
- Analyze the Word Length: The number of letters is your most valuable clue. If you have partial letters, try to fit common synonyms like THIEF (5) or CULPRIT (7) first.
- Consider Nuance and Specificity: Is the clue asking for a general term (e.g., FELON) or a specific type of criminal (e.g., ROBBER, if the context implies a bank)? Pay attention to any additional words in the clue.
- Look for Anagrams or Wordplay: While "criminal" usually has straightforward synonyms, sometimes clues are hidden. A clue like "Bad actor, perhaps, who commits crimes" might lead to an anagram or a pun.
For more advice, visit our page on general crossword strategies.
Frequently Asked Questions
What are common synonyms for 'criminal' in crosswords?
Common synonyms for 'criminal' often include words like THIEF, FELON, CROOK, CULPRIT, OFFENDER, and LAWBREAKER, varying by context and letter count.
How does context help when solving 'criminal' clues?
Context is crucial. A clue like 'Bank criminal' might suggest ROBBER, while 'Master criminal' could point to ARCHFIEND. Always consider the surrounding words and the specific type of crime implied.
Are there short-form or informal answers for 'criminal'?
Yes, informal terms like CRIM (4 letters) or PERP (4 letters, for 'perpetrator') are sometimes used in crosswords to indicate a criminal, especially when specific letter counts are needed.