crossword clue for enigma – All Crossword Answers
Welcome to Crosswordanswer.co.uk! If you're tackling the clue "crossword clue for enigma," you've come to the right place. Below, you'll find a comprehensive list of potential solutions, categorized by length, to help you complete your puzzle with ease.
Solutions for "crossword clue for enigma" by Letter Count
6 Letters
PUZZLE: A difficult or confusing problem or question. Often synonymous with an enigma in its perplexing nature.
RIDDLE: A question or statement intentionally phrased so as to require ingenuity in ascertaining its answer or meaning. A classic form of enigma.
7 Letters
MYSTERY: Something that is difficult or impossible to understand or explain. The most direct and common synonym for enigma in crosswords.
SECRECY: The state of being kept or remaining hidden from view or knowledge. Can be an answer when the enigma refers to something unknown or concealed.
9 Letters
CONUNDRUM: A confusing and difficult problem or question. Often implies a perplexing and intricate situation or problem, fitting the definition of an enigma.
More About "crossword clue for enigma"
The term "enigma" itself originates from Greek, meaning "to speak in riddles." In modern usage, it refers to a person or thing that is mysterious, puzzling, or difficult to understand. This core meaning is consistently reflected in crossword clues, which often seek words that convey a sense of the unknown, the perplexing, or the obscure.
When "enigma" appears as a clue, solvers should consider words that evoke a sense of a secret, a challenge to comprehension, or an unexplainable phenomenon. The variety of possible answers, from the straightforward "MYSTERY" to the more formal "CONUNDRUM," highlights the richness of the English language and the cleverness of crossword constructors in finding precise synonyms or related concepts.
Understanding the nuances of "enigma" and its semantic field is key to cracking these clues. It's not just about a simple definition, but about the context and the specific shade of meaning the constructor intends, often revealed through the number of letters and intersecting words.
Tips For Your Next Puzzle
- Count the Letters Carefully: Always double-check the exact number of letters required for the answer. This is the first and most critical filter for "enigma" clues, as multiple valid synonyms exist.
- Consider Nuance and Context: While "MYSTERY" is common, pay attention to the clue's specific phrasing. Does it suggest a problem (PUZZLE, CONUNDRUM), a secret (SECRECY), or a question (RIDDLE)?
- Check Intersecting Letters: Use letters from already solved cross-references to narrow down your choices. A single confirmed letter can often eliminate several possible "enigma" synonyms.
- Think Beyond Direct Synonyms: Sometimes, the answer to an "enigma" clue might be a word that describes something enigmatic, rather than a direct synonym for the word itself.
For more advice, visit our page on general crossword strategies.
Frequently Asked Questions
What does 'enigma' typically mean in a crossword context?
In crosswords, 'enigma' most commonly refers to something mysterious, puzzling, or difficult to understand. Clues might hint at a mystery, a puzzle, or a person who is mysterious or hard to interpret. Common answers include MYSTERY, PUZZLE, RIDDLE, or CONUNDRUM.
Are there common synonyms for 'enigma' used in crosswords?
Yes, several synonyms for 'enigma' frequently appear as answers. These include MYSTERY, PUZZLE, RIDDLE, CONUNDRUM, and occasionally SECRECY if the clue emphasizes the hidden aspect of the enigma. The length of the answer and surrounding letters will guide you to the specific synonym.
How can I identify the correct 'enigma' answer among multiple options?
To pinpoint the correct answer for 'enigma' when several options exist, always check the letter count first. Then, look at any intersecting letters from other solved clues. Finally, consider the specific nuances of the clue's phrasing; 'a person of mystery' might lean towards MYSTERY, while 'a perplexing question' might suggest RIDDLE or CONUNDRUM.