crossword clue omen – All Crossword Answers
Welcome to Crosswordanswer.co.uk! This page provides a comprehensive list of solutions for the crossword clue "omen", complete with explanations and categorized by letter count to help you quickly solve your puzzle.
Solutions for "crossword clue omen" by Letter Count
4 Letters
SIGN: A perceived indication of something about to happen.
HINT: A subtle indication or suggestion of something, often a future event.
6 Letters
AUGURY: A sign of what will happen in the future; an omen.
7 Letters
PORTENT: A sign or warning that something, especially something momentous or calamitous, is likely to happen.
10 Letters
PROGNOSTIC: Likely to occur; a sign or symptom of the future. (Used here as a noun for a foretelling sign).
More About "crossword clue omen"
The term "omen" refers to an event regarded as a sign of a future good or evil event. Throughout history and across cultures, humans have sought to interpret various occurrences as omens, ranging from natural phenomena like eclipses and animal behaviors to more abstract signs. These interpretations often reflect the beliefs, fears, and hopes of a society.
In crosswords, "omen" is a frequently used clue due to its rich array of synonyms across different lengths. Clues involving omens often test your vocabulary related to foresight, prediction, and premonition. Understanding the nuances between words like 'sign,' 'portent,' and 'augury' can be key to selecting the correct answer, especially when multiple options fit the letter count.
From ancient Roman augurs interpreting bird flights to modern superstitions, the concept of an omen remains deeply embedded in our collective consciousness. When tackling a crossword, think broadly about words that convey a sense of impending events or symbolic warnings to successfully solve this type of clue.
Tips For Your Next Puzzle
- Consider Letter Count First: Always check the required number of letters immediately. This is your most powerful filter for clues like "omen," which have many potential answers.
- Look for Intersecting Letters: Use letters already filled in from intersecting clues. Even one correct letter can dramatically narrow down the possibilities for an "omen" related word.
- Think of Synonyms and Context: For a clue like "omen," brainstorm all possible synonyms. Sometimes, the specific phrasing of the clue might hint at a more precise synonym (e.g., "bad omen" might suggest a stronger, more negative word).
- Check for Wordplay: While "omen" is usually a straightforward synonym clue, always be mindful of potential wordplay if you're stuck, though it's less common for such direct clues.
For more advice, visit our page on general crossword strategies.
Frequently Asked Questions
What's the difference between an omen and a prophecy?
An omen is typically a specific event or sign observed in the natural world (e.g., a black cat crossing your path, a comet), interpreted as a warning or indicator of a future event. A prophecy, on the other hand, is a more direct and often divine revelation about future events, usually delivered through a prophet or oracle. While both relate to foretelling, omens are interpreted signs, while prophecies are direct pronouncements.
How can the number of letters help solve an "omen" clue?
Knowing the exact number of letters is crucial in crosswords. For a clue like "omen," if you know it's a 4-letter word, you can quickly narrow down possibilities to 'SIGN' or 'HINT'. If it's 7 letters, 'PORTENT' becomes a strong candidate. This significantly reduces the search space, especially when combined with intersecting letters from other clues.
Are omens always negative or a sign of bad luck?
While many historical and cultural references associate omens with negative events or misfortune (like a bad omen), the term itself simply means a sign of something to come. Omens can be interpreted as either good or bad, depending on the context, cultural beliefs, and the nature of the sign itself. For instance, a rainbow after rain could be seen as a good omen for peace or prosperity.