crossword clue nous – All Crossword Answers
Welcome to Crosswordanswer.co.uk! Here you'll find comprehensive solutions and detailed explanations for the crossword clue "nous" to help you complete your puzzle with ease. We provide answers by letter count, ensuring you find exactly what you need.
Solutions for "crossword clue nous" by Letter Count
3 Letters
WIT: Refers to quick, inventive intellect or cleverness, often used in the context of sharp understanding or mental agility, aligning well with 'nous'.
4 Letters
MIND: Represents the faculty of consciousness and thought, encompassing intellect and understanding, making it a direct synonym for 'nous'.
5 Letters
SENSE: Denotes common sense or practical understanding, a core aspect of 'nous' as practical intelligence or shrewdness.
6 Letters
REASON: The faculty of logical thought and understanding, often considered a component or manifestation of 'nous'.
BRAINS: Informal term for intellect or mental capacity, aligning with 'nous' in the context of having good thinking ability.
9 Letters
INTELLECT: Refers to the faculty of reasoning and understanding, a broader and more formal synonym for 'nous' emphasizing mental power.
More About "crossword clue nous"
The term "nous" originates from ancient Greek philosophy, signifying intellect, mind, or understanding. It embodies a broad range of meanings from common sense and practical intelligence to higher, divine intellect. In crosswords, 'nous' is often a popular clue for answers related to mental faculties, shrewdness, or quick wit.
When you encounter 'nous' in a puzzle, consider its various applications. It might refer to someone's street smarts or business acumen (common sense, gumption), or it could point to a more academic or philosophical understanding (intellect, reason). The length of the answer box is your most crucial hint, guiding you to the precise synonym needed.
Understanding the nuances of 'nous' can unlock many related answers in crosswords. Its flexibility makes it a favorite among puzzle setters, testing your vocabulary for synonyms of intelligence, wisdom, and practical sagacity. Always think about context and the number of letters to narrow down the possibilities effectively.
Tips For Your Next Puzzle
- Analyze the Clue's Nuance: For a clue like "nous," consider its multiple meanings (intellect, common sense, wit). Which meaning best fits the letter count and surrounding letters?
- Check for Synonyms and Antonyms: Crosswords often rely on direct synonyms or antonyms. Brainstorm words related to intelligence or wisdom, and also their opposites, as sometimes a clue can be misleadingly direct.
- Use Cross-References: If you have a few letters filled in from intersecting words, use them! These concrete letters are often the key to unlocking challenging words like "nous" by limiting the possible answers.
- Think About Common Crossword Patterns: Experienced solvers recognize common crossword answers. Words like WIT, SENSE, MIND, and REASON appear frequently for clues related to intelligence.
For more advice, visit our page on general crossword strategies.
Frequently Asked Questions
What does 'nous' mean in a philosophical context?
In philosophy, 'nous' (from Greek) refers to intellect, mind, or intelligence. It often denotes the faculty of human thought or a divine cosmic intelligence, especially in ancient Greek philosophy. It's about fundamental understanding and insight.
How can I quickly find answers for short crossword clues like 'nous'?
For short clues like 'nous', focus on synonyms that are also short. Think about common short words for intellect, mind, or common sense. Also, consider the number of letters provided in the grid as a key hint. Online crossword solvers and dictionaries are also great tools.
Is 'nous' a common word in everyday English?
While 'nous' is primarily a philosophical or somewhat formal term, it is used in common English, particularly in British English, to mean common sense, practical intelligence, or shrewdness. For example, 'He's got a lot of nous for business.'