crossword clue lean – All Crossword Answers
Welcome to Crosswordanswer.co.uk, your ultimate resource for solving challenging crossword puzzles! On this page, you'll find comprehensive solutions and explanations for the clue "lean", helping you complete your puzzle with ease.
Solutions for "crossword clue lean" by Letter Count
4 Letters
THIN: Lacking in flesh or fat; slender.
TILT: To cause to slope or lean to one side.
5 Letters
GAUNT: Extremely thin and bony; emaciated.
SLANT: To be at an angle or incline.
6 Letters
MEAGER: Lacking in quantity or quality; very thin.
More About "crossword clue lean"
The clue "lean" is a versatile term in crosswords, often leading to answers that relate to physical posture, a lack of fat or substance, or even a tendency or inclination towards something. Depending on the context of the puzzle, "lean" can describe something that is not upright, or a person who is slender. It's crucial to consider the number of letters required and any intersecting words to narrow down the correct solution.
Puzzles frequently use "lean" to imply a lack of abundance, such as "lean times" referring to periods of scarcity, or "lean meat" describing cuts with low fat content. The physical aspect, such as 'leaning against a wall' or 'leaning into the wind', also provides ample opportunity for diverse answers. Understanding these different facets of the word is key to successfully tackling the clue.
Crossword setters love using words with multiple meanings, and "lean" is a prime example. Always be prepared for answers that might refer to a political inclination (a 'lean' towards socialism) or even a metaphorical 'lean' of support. This multi-layered nature makes it a challenging but rewarding clue to solve.
Tips For Your Next Puzzle
- Consider Multiple Meanings: For words like "lean," think about all possible definitions: physical tilt, thinness, tendency, or even dependence. The puzzle setter is often playing on these ambiguities.
- Check Word Lengths: Always confirm the number of letters. This is the fastest way to eliminate many possibilities and focus on relevant answers.
- Look at Intersecting Clues: The best way to confirm a tricky answer is by seeing if it fits with other completed words in the grid. If an answer doesn't make sense vertically or horizontally, it's probably wrong.
- Think of Synonyms and Antonyms: If "lean" means thin, what are its synonyms? If it means to tilt, what are other words for that action? Sometimes the clue requires an antonym too.
For more advice, visit our page on general crossword strategies.
Frequently Asked Questions
How do I find crossword answers when I'm stuck?
When you're stuck, try to identify synonyms or antonyms, consider the clue's part of speech, or use online resources like Crosswordanswer.co.uk. Often, thinking about the context or common crossword puzzle tropes can help unlock the answer.
What's the difference between "lean" and "incline" in crosswords?
While both can refer to a slope or a tendency, 'lean' often suggests a physical resting against something or a very slight angle. 'Incline' more broadly refers to any slope or a natural tendency. In puzzles, 'lean' might also refer to being thin, while 'incline' rarely does.
Are there common synonyms for "lean" used in puzzles?
Yes, common synonyms for 'lean' in crosswords include TILT, SLANT, THIN, GAUNT, MEAGER, SKINNY (for the 'thin' meaning), and sometimes RELY or DEPEND (for the 'to rely on' meaning).