crossword clue diminutive – All Crossword Answers
Welcome to Crosswordanswer.co.uk, your ultimate resource for solving tricky crossword clues! On this page, you'll find comprehensive answers and explanations for the clue "diminutive", organized by letter count for your convenience.
Solutions for "crossword clue diminutive" by Letter Count
3 Letters
WEE: Meaning extremely small or little, often implying a charming or affectionate smallness.
4 Letters
TINY: Very small. This is a common and straightforward synonym for diminutive, frequently appearing in crosswords.
MINI: A shortened form of miniature, implying a scaled-down version of something.
5 Letters
SMALL: Of a size that is less than normal or usual. A broad synonym that fits many contexts.
TEENY: Extremely small; tiny. An informal variant often used for emphasis.
6 Letters
LITTLE: Small in size, amount, or degree. Often used interchangeably with 'small' or 'tiny'.
8 Letters
PINTSIZE: Exceptionally small, often referring to a person or object that is remarkably short or small for its kind.
More About "crossword clue diminutive"
The term "diminutive" is a fascinating linguistic concept that refers to a form of a word, especially a noun, that expresses a lesser degree of its original meaning, a sense of smallness, or sometimes endearment. In crosswords, clues for "diminutive" typically lead to synonyms for smallness, such as TINY, WEE, or MINI. However, it's also important to consider the nuanced ways this clue can be used.
Beyond literal size, "diminutive" can also refer to shortened or informal versions of names (e.g., 'Rob' for Robert, 'Liz' for Elizabeth) or words created with specific suffixes that convey smallness or affection (like '-ette' in 'kitchenette' or '-ling' in 'duckling'). When tackling such a clue, always factor in the letter count and any other intersecting letters you might have to narrow down the possibilities.
Understanding the various applications of "diminutive" can significantly boost your crossword-solving success. Whether it's a straightforward synonym or a more complex linguistic twist, keeping these possibilities in mind will help you crack even the trickiest puzzles.
Tips For Your Next Puzzle
- Consider All Synonyms: For clues like "diminutive," think beyond the most obvious answers. Brainstorm a wide range of synonyms for 'small,' 'tiny,' 'little,' and 'miniature.'
- Check Letter Count First: Before committing to an answer, always verify that its letter count matches the space available in the grid. This is your quickest way to eliminate many possibilities.
- Look for Suffix Hints: Some "diminutive" clues might hint at words ending in specific diminutive suffixes like -ETTE, -LING, or -KIN. Pay attention to how the clue is phrased.
- Cross-Reference with Intersecting Words: Use the letters you've already filled in from intersecting words. This is often the most reliable method to confirm or reject a potential answer.
For more advice, visit our page on general crossword strategies.
Frequently Asked Questions
What does 'diminutive' mean in a crossword context?
In crosswords, 'diminutive' typically refers to something very small or tiny. It can also imply a shortened or informal version of a name (e.g., 'Liz' for 'Elizabeth') or a word formed with a suffix that indicates smallness or endearment (e.g., 'duckling'). Always consider the number of letters required for the answer.
Are there common suffixes related to diminutive words that appear in crosswords?
Yes, common English diminutive suffixes include '-ette' (e.g., 'kitchenette', 'sugarette'), '-ling' (e.g., 'duckling', 'gosling'), '-kin' (e.g., 'lambkin'), and sometimes '-y' or '-ie' (e.g., 'doggie', 'kitty'). These can sometimes be part of a longer answer related to a diminutive clue.
How can I tell if a 'diminutive' clue needs a literal or figurative answer?
The context of the puzzle, surrounding clues, and the number of available letters are key. Most often, 'diminutive' will require a literal synonym like TINY or SMALL. However, if the clue hints at an informal name or uses wordplay, a more figurative or specific diminutive form might be needed. If in doubt, try the most common synonyms first.