crossword clue discerning – All Crossword Answers
Welcome to Crosswordanswer.co.uk! Struggling with the clue "discerning"? You've come to the right place. Below you'll find all possible solutions, sorted by letter count, to help you complete your puzzle with ease.
Solutions for "crossword clue discerning" by Letter Count
4 Letters
KEEN: Having a sharp mind or senses; quick to understand.
5 Letters
ACUTE: Having or showing a perceptive understanding or insight; sharp.
SHARP: Having or showing a quick wit or ability to think clearly; mentally alert.
6 Letters
ASTUTE: Having or showing an ability to accurately assess situations or people and turn this to one's advantage; shrewd.
9 Letters
SAGACIOUS: Having or showing keen mental discernment and good judgment; shrewd.
10 Letters
PERCEPTIVE: Having or showing sensitive insight; intuitive.
14 Letters
DISCRIMINATING: Having or showing refined taste or judgment; discerning.
More About "crossword clue discerning"
The word "discerning" implies a capability for keen insight and good judgment, often in subtle matters. In crosswords, this translates to answers that highlight mental sharpness, an ability to differentiate, or a refined sense of taste and appreciation. Understanding the nuance of such words is key to unlocking not just this clue, but many others that rely on synonyms and closely related concepts.
When you encounter 'discerning' as a clue, think about what kind of person would possess this quality. Are they intelligent? Shrewd? Keen-eyed? The context of the puzzle might also offer hints; for instance, if the puzzle has a theme of art or food, a 'discerning' answer might lean towards taste or critical evaluation. If it's about business or strategy, it might refer to shrewdness or acumen.
Remember that crosswords often play with multiple meanings or subtle differences between synonyms. While 'discerning' can mean 'perceptive', it can also imply 'selective' or 'fastidious', especially when referring to taste. Always consider the length of the required answer and any intersecting letters to guide your choice.
Tips For Your Next Puzzle
- Analyze the Nuance: For clues like "discerning," consider the subtle differences between potential synonyms. Is the clue implying intellectual sharpness, or a refined taste? This can help you choose between words like "KEEN" and "DISCRIMINATING."
- Check Intersecting Letters: Always use the letters from crossing words. This is your most powerful tool to confirm or eliminate potential answers, especially when multiple synonyms fit the primary clue.
- Think About Context: If the crossword has a theme, or if other clues in the puzzle point to a specific domain (e.g., culinary, academic, artistic), this can guide your interpretation of "discerning" and lead you to the correct answer.
- Consider Phrasal Verbs: Sometimes, a single-word clue like "discerning" might lead to a two-word answer if it's part of a common idiom or phrase (though less common for this specific word). Always be open to less direct connections.
For more advice, visit our page on general crossword strategies.
Frequently Asked Questions
What does 'discerning' mean in a crossword context?
In crosswords, 'discerning' typically refers to someone or something that shows good judgment, acute insight, or refined taste. Answers are often synonyms like 'KEEN', 'SHARP', 'ASTUTE', or 'PERCEPTIVE'.
How can I find a 'discerning' answer quickly if I only know a few letters?
If you have some letters, try to narrow down the options by letter count. Look for words that fit the pattern. For example, if you have '_E_N', 'KEEN' is a strong possibility for 'discerning'. You can also use online crossword solvers that allow pattern matching.
Are there common themes related to 'discerning' clues?
Yes, 'discerning' clues often appear in puzzles focusing on qualities of mind, taste, or critical evaluation. They might relate to art, food, or general wisdom, indicating a sophisticated or intelligent appreciation.