crossword clue instrument – All Crossword Answers
Welcome! If you're searching for the solution to the crossword clue "instrument", you've come to the right place. Below, you'll find a comprehensive list of potential answers, organized by letter count, along with helpful explanations to guide you to the correct solution for your puzzle.
Solutions for "crossword clue instrument" by Letter Count
3 Letters
SAX: A common abbreviation for saxophone, a popular brass wind instrument.
4 Letters
DRUM: A versatile percussion instrument, found in various cultures and musical genres.
HARP: A stringed musical instrument that has individual strings running at an angle to its soundboard.
5 Letters
FLUTE: A classical woodwind instrument, played by blowing air across an embouchure hole.
PIANO: A keyboard instrument that produces sound by striking strings with hammers.
6 Letters
GUITAR: A widely recognized stringed instrument, used in a vast array of musical styles from rock to classical.
VIOLIN: A string instrument, the smallest and highest-pitched member of the violin family of string instruments.
7 Letters
TRUMPET: A powerful brass instrument, often used in orchestras, jazz ensembles, and military bands.
More About "crossword clue instrument"
The clue "instrument" is a classic in crosswords due to the sheer variety of answers it can have. From musical instruments like a 'FLUTE' or 'GUITAR' to scientific devices such as a 'RULER' or a 'SCALE' (though less common for this exact phrasing), the possibilities can seem endless. This makes it a great clue for solvers to test their general knowledge and vocabulary across various fields.
When encountering this clue, always consider the letter count first, as it's the primary filter. Then, think about the most common and iconic instruments in daily life, ranging from orchestral to rock band essentials. Context from intersecting words is also crucial, as it often narrows down the type of instrument (e.g., if a crossing word suggests a scientific theme, then 'TOOL' or 'GAUGE' might be more appropriate than 'PIANO').
Remember that crosswords often favor common nouns and simple, direct answers. While there are thousands of instruments globally, setters typically stick to those widely recognized. This page provides the most probable and frequently appearing answers you'll find in standard crossword puzzles.
Tips For Your Next Puzzle
- Count Your Letters: Always start by counting the available spaces in the grid. This is the fastest way to eliminate many possibilities for "instrument."
- Check Crossings: Use any letters you've already filled in from intersecting clues. These confirmed letters will quickly narrow down the list of possible instruments.
- Think Broadly & Specifically: While musical instruments are the most common association, don't forget about tools or scientific instruments if the surrounding clues hint at a different context.
- Consider Common Abbreviations: For shorter word lengths, an abbreviation like 'SAX' (for saxophone) is a strong possibility.
- Reverse Engineer: If you're stuck, sometimes looking at other clues you have solved can give you a hint about the puzzle setter's style or preferred vocabulary.
For more advice, visit our page on general crossword strategies.
Frequently Asked Questions
What type of instrument is commonly a short answer in crosswords?
Short answers like 'SAX', 'OBOE', or 'HARP' are common as they fit various small word lengths in a grid. Always consider common instruments first.
How can I distinguish between similar instrument clues?
Look for additional context in the clue, such as 'woodwind instrument' (FLUTE, OBOE), 'string instrument' (GUITAR, VIOLIN), or 'percussion instrument' (DRUM). The word length is also a critical differentiator.
Are obscure instruments often used as crossword answers?
Generally, crosswords stick to well-known instruments to ensure broad appeal. However, in more challenging puzzles, you might encounter less common ones. If you're stuck, focus on the classics first before branching out.