crossword clue long – All Crossword Answers
Welcome! If you're stuck on the crossword clue "crossword clue long", you've come to the right place. We provide a comprehensive list of potential answers, detailed explanations, and tips to help you complete your puzzle. Whether you're looking for a short or a lengthy solution, we've got you covered.
Solutions for "crossword clue long" by Letter Count
4 Letters
TALL: Often used for something long in height, like a tall building or tree.
5 Letters
YEARN: To 'long for' something, indicating a strong desire or craving.
7 Letters
LENGTHY: Descriptive of something of considerable or unusual length, especially in time.
8 Letters
EXTENDED: Stretched out or prolonged; made longer in duration or space.
10 Letters
PROTRACTED: Lasting for a long time or longer than expected or usual; drawn out.
More About "crossword clue long"
The clue "long" is a classic example of a versatile crossword prompt, capable of eliciting a wide range of answers depending on context. It can refer to physical dimension (e.g., a long road, a long dress), duration (a long journey, a long wait), or even a strong desire or yearning (to long for home). Crossword setters often play on these multiple meanings, requiring solvers to consider the surrounding clues and the number of available letters to pinpoint the exact solution.
Understanding the different nuances of "long" is key. If the clue implies a physical attribute, answers like TALL or LENGTHY might fit. If it suggests duration, PROTRACTED or EXTENDED could be correct. And if it's a verb, YEARN or DESIRE might be the intended word. Always be mindful of the part of speech implied by the clue; this is often a critical hint in determining the correct answer among several possibilities.
Furthermore, "long" can sometimes appear in idiomatic expressions or phrasal verbs, adding another layer of complexity. For instance, a clue might hint at "long shot" or "long-winded." These instances require recognizing the phrase rather than just the individual word. A good solver keeps an open mind to all interpretations when encountering such a common yet multi-faceted clue.
Tips For Your Next Puzzle
- Consider All Meanings: For common words like "long," always think beyond the most obvious definition. Brainstorm synonyms for length, duration, and desire.
- Check Letter Count First: Before anything else, note the number of letters needed. This immediately eliminates many potential answers and narrows down your options considerably.
- Utilize Intersecting Letters: Use letters you've already filled in from crossing words. These are your most powerful tools for confirming or discarding potential answers, especially when multiple words fit the initial clue.
- Look for Part of Speech Clues: Does the clue use "long" as an adjective, verb, or part of a noun phrase? This subtle hint can guide you toward the correct grammatical form of the answer.
- Think About Context: Does the puzzle have a theme, or are there other clues that might hint at a specific domain (e.g., geography, music, literature)? This broader context can sometimes clarify ambiguous clues.
For more advice, visit our page on general crossword strategies.
Frequently Asked Questions
Why do crossword clues like 'long' have multiple answers?
Crossword clues often have multiple answers because words can have various meanings, synonyms, or be part of different idiomatic expressions. 'Long' can refer to physical length, duration, a desire ('long for'), or even be part of a phrase. The correct answer depends on the number of letters and surrounding letters in the grid.
How can I determine the correct 'long' answer if there are several options?
Always check the number of letters required by the grid. Then, look at intersecting letters from other solved clues. These intersecting letters will often narrow down the possibilities significantly, helping you choose the precise word that fits both the clue and the grid.
Are there common tricks for 'long' clues in crosswords?
Yes, for clues like 'long,' consider various interpretations: 'long' as a verb (e.g., YEARN, DESIRE), 'long' as an adjective (e.g., LENGTHY, TALL), or 'long' in phrases (e.g., 'LONGITUDE' if part of a geography clue). Pay attention to any punctuation or specific phrasing in the clue that might hint at its intended meaning or part of speech.