crossword clue meagre – All Crossword Answers
Welcome to Crosswordanswer.co.uk! Here you'll find comprehensive solutions for the crossword clue "meagre", organized by letter count, along with detailed explanations to help you understand and solve your puzzles with ease.
Solutions for "crossword clue meagre" by Letter Count
4 Letters
POOR: Often used to describe something of low quality or insufficient amount, fitting 'meagre'.
5 Letters
SCANT: Meaning barely sufficient or adequate, a direct synonym for 'meagre'.
6 Letters
SPARSE: Describes something present only in small amounts or widely scattered, aligning with 'meagre' in quantity.
7 Letters
LIMITED: Restricted in size, amount, or extent, which captures the essence of a 'meagre' supply.
12 Letters
INSUFFICIENT: Not enough; inadequate, clearly expressing the meaning of 'meagre'.
More About "crossword clue meagre"
"Meagre" is a common adjective in the English language, referring to something that is small in quantity, quality, or extent, often implying insufficiency or deficiency. When encountered in a crossword puzzle, the clue "meagre" prompts solvers to think of synonyms that convey a sense of scarcity, lack, or inadequacy. This could range from physical descriptions, like a 'thin' or 'poor' meal, to abstract concepts, such as 'limited' resources or 'scant' information.
The beauty of crossword clues like "meagre" lies in their versatility. Depending on the letter count and intersecting words, the answer could be a concise descriptor like POOR or THIN, or a more elaborate term like INSUFFICIENT. Understanding the core meaning of "meagre" as 'not enough' or 'lacking' is key to unlocking the correct solution, especially when considering different nuances like quantity (scant, sparse) versus quality (poor).
Crossword constructors often use such words to test a solver's vocabulary depth and ability to discern subtle synonyms. By exploring various terms that fit the "meagre" definition, you not only solve the current puzzle but also enrich your linguistic arsenal for future challenges.
Tips For Your Next Puzzle
- Analyze Letter Count: The number of letters is your most crucial hint. For 'meagre', a 4-letter answer might be 'POOR', while a 5-letter answer could be 'SCANT'. Always start by checking the exact length needed.
- Consider Nuances: 'Meagre' can imply quantity (sparse, scant), quality (poor), or extent (limited). Think about which aspect the answer needs to emphasize based on the puzzle's theme or other clues.
- Check Surrounding Letters: If you have one or two letters filled in from intersecting words, use them to narrow down possibilities. For instance, if you have _C_A_T, and 'meagre' is the clue, 'SCANT' becomes highly probable.
- Think of American vs. British English: While 'meagre' is common in British English, the American spelling is 'meager'. Sometimes, a puzzle might lean one way, subtly influencing the choice of other words.
For more advice, visit our page on general crossword strategies.
Frequently Asked Questions
What does 'meagre' typically mean in a crossword clue?
In crosswords, 'meagre' usually refers to something that is small in quantity, quality, or extent; insufficient, scanty, or poor. Look for synonyms relating to scarcity, inadequacy, or poorness.
Are there common alternative spellings or related terms for 'meagre'?
While 'meagre' is the British English spelling, 'meager' is the common American English spelling. Both refer to the same concept. Crossword setters might use either, so be mindful of the puzzle's origin. Related terms often revolve around concepts like scarcity, deficiency, or smallness.
How can I deduce 'meagre' if I only have a few letters?
If you have a few letters, consider common synonyms of 'meagre' and their lengths. For example, if you have a 4-letter word and an 'O', 'POOR' is a strong candidate. For 5 letters with an 'A', 'SCANT' might fit. Pay attention to the surrounding letters and the overall theme of the puzzle.