crossword clue proverb – All Crossword Answers
Welcome to Crosswordanswer.co.uk, your ultimate resource for solving tricky crossword clues! On this page, you'll find comprehensive answers and explanations for the clue "proverb," covering all common word lengths to help you complete your puzzle with ease.
Solutions for "crossword clue proverb" by Letter Count
5 Letters
ADAGE: An old, short, popular saying, usually expressing a general truth.
MAXIM: A short, pithy statement expressing a general truth or rule of conduct.
AXIOM: A statement or proposition which is regarded as being established, accepted, or self-evidently true without proof.
6 Letters
SAYING: A common phrase or expression that expresses a general truth or piece of advice.
3 Letters
SAW: An old and popular saying or proverb (often used in the phrase 'old saw').
More About "crossword clue proverb"
The clue "proverb" often appears in crosswords due to the rich vocabulary associated with traditional wisdom and common sayings. Proverbs are concise, popular statements that typically convey a piece of advice, a moral lesson, or a general truth, often passed down through generations. They are an integral part of language and culture, summarizing complex ideas into memorable phrases.
When you encounter "proverb" in a crossword, the setter is usually looking for a synonym for a well-known, short expression of wisdom. This can range from very common words like ADAGE and MAXIM to slightly less frequent but still valid options like AXIOM or even SAW, which refers to an 'old saw' or a traditional saying.
Understanding the nuances of these synonyms can greatly aid in solving your puzzle, especially when combined with the specific letter count provided by the grid. Always consider the precise meaning implied by the clue alongside the available letters.
Tips For Your Next Puzzle
- Analyze the Clue's Nuance: While "proverb" is a direct clue, some setters might hint at it with phrases like "old saying," "folk wisdom," or "wise statement." Pay attention to these subtle cues.
- Consider Letter Count First: Before anything else, use the number of letters to narrow down possibilities. For "proverb," common lengths are 5 and 6 letters, but shorter or longer answers can exist.
- Leverage Intersecting Letters: Use letters revealed by already-solved cross clues. This is the most reliable way to confirm or eliminate potential answers like ADAGE, MAXIM, or SAYING, especially when multiple options fit the definition.
- Think Beyond the Obvious: Sometimes a less common synonym like "SAW" or even "GNOME" (referring to a concise, pithy saying) might be the correct answer. Keep an open mind and a broad vocabulary.
For more advice, visit our page on general crossword strategies.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the most common crossword answer for "proverb"?
While it varies by puzzle and setter, ADAGE, MAXIM, SAYING, and AXIOM are among the most frequent and widely accepted answers for the clue "proverb."
How do I distinguish between similar proverb answers like 'adage' and 'maxim'?
Often, the surrounding letters from intersecting words in your crossword puzzle will be the key to distinguishing between similar answers. Both 'adage' and 'maxim' are short, pithy statements, but maxims can sometimes imply a rule of conduct more specifically.
Are there any short, less obvious answers for "proverb"?
Yes, 'SAW' (as in an 'old saw') is a less common but valid short answer sometimes used for 'proverb' in crosswords. Occasionally, 'GNOME' can also appear as a highly concise, witty saying.