crossword clue partisan – All Crossword Answers
Welcome to Crosswordanswer.co.uk! If you're looking for solutions to the clue "partisan", you've come to the right place. We provide a comprehensive list of possible answers, sorted by letter count, along with helpful explanations to get you unstuck and complete your puzzle.
Solutions for "crossword clue partisan" by Letter Count
5 Letters
BIGOT: While often negative, this word can describe someone with an unreasoning or prejudiced attachment to a party or cause, fitting a 'partisan' sense.
7 Letters
DEVOTEE: A fervent supporter or follower, directly matching the spirit of a partisan supporter.
8 Letters
ADHERENT: A common and fitting answer for a person who supports a particular party, idea, or set of beliefs.
9 Letters
SUPPORTER: A straightforward synonym for someone who champions a person, cause, or group.
GUERRILLA: If the clue implies a fighter or irregular soldier, this is often the intended answer for 'partisan'.
More About "crossword clue partisan"
The crossword clue "partisan" is fascinating because it can lead to answers from two distinct semantic fields. Firstly, it often refers to someone who is a strong, sometimes uncritical, supporter of a person, group, or ideology. In this context, answers like ADHERENT, SUPPORTER, or DEVOTEE are frequently found. The nuance of the clue might guide you towards how biased or fervent this support is.
Secondly, "partisan" can refer to a member of an armed group engaged in irregular warfare, particularly against an occupying force. This meaning is rooted in historical contexts, such as World War II resistance movements. When clued this way, answers like GUERRILLA are highly likely. Pay close attention to any surrounding clues or the overall theme of the puzzle, as these can often hint at which meaning of "partisan" is being sought.
Understanding these dual meanings is key to successfully solving clues involving "partisan." Crossword setters love to play on words with multiple interpretations, and this clue is a prime example. Always consider both the political/supportive angle and the military/resistance angle when you encounter "partisan" in your puzzle.
Tips For Your Next Puzzle
- Check Letter Count First: Always verify the number of letters you have for the answer grid. This is the most crucial step in narrowing down possibilities for clues like "partisan" that have multiple answers.
- Look for Intersecting Letters: Use any letters you've already filled in from crossing words. These fixed letters will quickly eliminate incorrect solutions and confirm the right one.
- Consider the Clue's Nuance: For a clue like "partisan," think about the subtle meaning. Does it imply strong political support, or does it hint at a fighter? The exact phrasing of the clue can be a huge hint.
- Think about Negative Connotations: Sometimes, words like "partisan" can imply a negative bias. If the grid fits, consider answers with a less positive spin, like BIGOT, if the clue suggests blind or unreasonable allegiance.
For more advice, visit our page on general crossword strategies.
Frequently Asked Questions
What does 'partisan' mean in a crossword context?
In crosswords, 'partisan' can refer to a strong, often biased, supporter of a particular party, cause, or person (e.g., ADHERENT, SUPPORTER, DEVOTEE). It can also refer to a member of an armed group fighting secretly against an occupying force, often a guerrilla fighter (e.g., GUERRILLA).
How do I choose between multiple answers for 'partisan'?
To select the correct answer, check the number of letters required for the solution. Also, consider any crossing letters you already have, as these will narrow down the possibilities. The exact nuance of the clue or the puzzle's theme might also give hints about the intended meaning, whether it's political support or an irregular fighter.
Are there common synonyms for 'partisan' used in crosswords?
Yes, common synonyms or related terms often clued as 'partisan' include: follower, loyalist, devotee, adherent, supporter, activist, and sometimes even bigot (for the biased aspect) or guerrilla (for the fighter aspect). Always consider the context of the puzzle, including other clues and the puzzle's general difficulty.