crossword clue for brilliant – All Crossword Answers
Welcome to Crosswordanswer.co.uk! Below you'll find comprehensive solutions and explanations for the crossword clue "crossword clue for brilliant", categorized by letter count to help you pinpoint the exact answer you need for your puzzle.
Solutions for "crossword clue for brilliant" by Letter Count
5 Letters
SMART: Intelligent and quick-witted, a common synonym for brilliant.
GREAT: Excellent or outstanding, often used to describe something brilliant.
6 Letters
CLEVER: Quick to learn and understand, another close synonym for brilliant.
GENIUS: Possessing exceptional intellectual ability, a high degree of brilliance.
BRIGHT: Both literally luminous and figuratively intelligent, making it a versatile answer.
8 Letters
DAZZLING: Extremely bright or impressive, often used for brilliant visual displays or performances.
LUMINOUS: Emitting or reflecting light; shining, perfect for the 'brilliant' meaning of light.
9 Letters
EXCELLENT: Extremely good or outstanding, a direct fit for brilliant in quality.
11 Letters
OUTSTANDING: Exceptionally good, standing out from the rest due to its brilliance.
More About "crossword clue for brilliant"
The word "brilliant" is a versatile term that often appears in crosswords due to its multiple meanings. It can describe someone with high intelligence or exceptional talent, a vibrant light or color, or something of outstanding quality or excellence. Crossword setters frequently leverage these different interpretations, making it crucial for solvers to consider the context of the clue.
When you encounter a clue for "brilliant," think about whether it refers to mental acuity (like a brilliant scientist), a visual spectacle (like brilliant sunshine), or a superb achievement (like a brilliant goal). This semantic flexibility means that answers can range from straightforward synonyms such as SMART or CLEVER to more descriptive words like DAZZLING or LUMINOUS, depending on the specific angle the clue takes.
Understanding these nuances is key to selecting the correct answer, especially when multiple options fit the letter count. Always look at the surrounding words in the clue and any letters you've already filled in from intersecting words to confirm the intended meaning and secure your solution.
Tips For Your Next Puzzle
- Consider Multiple Meanings: Many words, including "brilliant," have several definitions. Always consider all possible interpretations before settling on an answer.
- Check Letter Counts Carefully: Ensure the answer you're considering precisely matches the required number of letters. This is a common way to eliminate incorrect but plausible solutions.
- Utilize Cross-References: If you're stuck on a "brilliant" clue, try solving intersecting words first. The letters you fill in will provide crucial hints and narrow down the possibilities for the "brilliant" answer.
- Think Synonyms and Antonyms: Crossword clues often rely on direct synonyms or antonyms. Brainstorm words that mean the same as or the opposite of "brilliant" in various contexts.
For more advice, visit our page on general crossword strategies.
Frequently Asked Questions
What are common synonyms for 'brilliant' in crosswords?
Common synonyms for 'brilliant' in crosswords include SMART, CLEVER, GENIUS, BRIGHT, and DAZZLING. The specific answer often depends on the number of letters required and the exact nuance the clue hints at.
How does context help when solving 'brilliant' clues?
The context of the clue is vital. 'Brilliant' can refer to intelligence (e.g., 'brilliant mind'), light (e.g., 'brilliant star'), or excellence (e.g., 'brilliant performance'). Identifying which meaning is intended will narrow down possible answers significantly.
Are there any tricks or common misdirections for 'brilliant'?
Sometimes 'brilliant' might be clued with a double meaning. For instance, 'brilliant' could refer to a gemstone's cut (brilliant cut), hinting at answers like FACETED. Always consider both literal and figurative meanings, and check surrounding letters.