crossword clue means – All Crossword Answers
Welcome to Crosswordanswer.co.uk! If you're grappling with the clue "crossword clue means," you've come to the right place. Below, you'll find a comprehensive list of possible solutions, neatly organized by letter count, along with clear explanations to help you understand the connection. Get ready to conquer your crossword puzzle!
Solutions for "crossword clue means" by Letter Count
2 Letters
IS: This simple verb often indicates a direct equivalence or definition, serving as a fundamental synonym for 'means' in many contexts.
3 Letters
AIM: Can refer to the purpose or objective of something, implying what it 'means' to achieve or what its intent is.
6 Letters
DENOTE: To be a sign of; to indicate; to mean. Often used when defining a symbol or term.
INTEND: To have in mind as a purpose or goal. When you 'intend' something, you 'mean' for it to happen or mean it in a certain way.
7 Letters
IMPLIES: To express or indicate something indirectly; to mean without stating explicitly, often through context or suggestion.
8 Letters
SUGGESTS: To put forward an idea or meaning for consideration, often in an indirect or tentative manner, akin to implying what something means.
9 Letters
SIGNIFIES: To be a sign of or to indicate something. This is a very direct and common synonym for 'means', especially when discussing the importance or symbolism of something.
INDICATES: To point out or show; to be a sign of. Similar to signifies, it describes what something means or points towards.
10 Letters
REPRESENTS: To stand for or in place of something; to mean or symbolize. Often used when one thing is a direct embodiment or symbol of another.
More About "crossword clue means"
The term "means" in a crossword clue is a strong indicator that the answer you're looking for is a direct synonym, definition, or equivalent of a word or phrase presented elsewhere in the clue. This type of clue is designed to test your vocabulary and your ability to recall precise word definitions. Unlike cryptic clues that rely on wordplay, "means" clues are usually straightforward, requiring you to think about the core definition of the given term.
Crossword setters frequently use "means" and its synonyms to link a concept directly to its linguistic counterpart. For instance, if the clue were "Elucidate means," the answer would be a word like 'EXPLAIN'. Understanding this convention is crucial for efficiency in solving. Always consider the context of the word preceding "means" and how it might translate into a single, concise answer matching the required letter count.
While often appearing simple, sometimes the challenge lies in the sheer number of synonyms a word might have, or in differentiating between subtle shades of meaning. Paying attention to other words in the clue (e.g., 'rarely means' or 'always means') can provide additional context or nuance, guiding you to the precise answer the setter intended.
Tips For Your Next Puzzle
- Focus on Direct Synonyms: When you see "means," immediately think of direct one-word equivalents for the preceding term.
- Consider All Word Lengths: Don't get stuck on one specific length. As shown above, "means" can lead to answers from two letters up to ten or more. Keep an open mind about the possible lengths.
- Use Context Clues: Look at surrounding words in the clue. Adverbs like "often," "rarely," or "specifically" can narrow down the potential meanings of the word you need to define.
- Practice with a Thesaurus: Regularly consulting a thesaurus (or an online synonym dictionary) can expand your vocabulary and make you quicker at recalling definitions for "means" clues.
For more advice, visit our page on general crossword strategies.
Frequently Asked Questions
What does 'means' signify in a crossword clue?
In a crossword clue, 'means' typically acts as a direct synonym indicator. It suggests that the answer word is a definition or an equivalent of the word or phrase presented in the clue. For example, if the clue is 'Diligent means', the answer would be a synonym for 'diligent'.
Are there common synonyms for 'means' used in crosswords?
Yes, common synonyms for 'means' often found in clues include 'implies', 'denotes', 'signifies', 'is', 'indicates', 'suggests', and 'represents'. Recognizing these variations can help you quickly identify the type of answer required.
How do I approach clues that include 'means'?
When you see 'means' in a clue, focus on the word or phrase immediately preceding it. Your goal is to find a single word (or sometimes a short phrase, if indicated) that directly defines or is synonymous with that part of the clue. Consider the context and the required letter count to narrow down possibilities.