crossword clue rival – All Crossword Answers
Welcome to Crosswordanswer.co.uk! We've got the solutions for the clue "crossword clue rival" to help you complete your puzzle. Whether you're looking for a short or long answer, you'll find it here.
Solutions for "crossword clue rival" by Letter Count
3 Letters
FOE: A common and concise answer for 'rival', often referring to an enemy or adversary.
5 Letters
ENEMY: A straightforward synonym for 'rival', indicating a person who is hostile or opposed to someone or something.
8 Letters
OPPONENT: A widely used solution, referring to someone who competes with or fights against another in a contest, game, or argument.
10 Letters
COMPETITOR: A highly fitting answer, describing a person, team, or company that is contending with others for the same objective or in the same field.
More About "crossword clue rival"
The term "rival" is a staple in crossword puzzles due to its versatile meaning and numerous synonyms. It generally refers to a person or thing competing with another for the same objective or for superiority in the same field of activity. This could be in sports, business, personal relationships, or even fictional narratives.
When you encounter "rival" as a clue, think broadly about its implications. Is it a long-standing personal feud (like a nemesis or arch-rival), a one-time opponent in a game, or a competitor in the marketplace? The context of the puzzle, and especially the number of letters and any already-filled-in letters, will guide you to the exact solution.
Common crossword setter techniques for "rival" clues often involve plays on words or subtle hints. For example, a clue might refer to "one seeking the same prize," "a challenger," or "an adversary." Being familiar with the various lengths and common synonyms, like those provided above, will significantly speed up your solving process.
Tips For Your Next Puzzle
- Check Letter Count First: Always verify the number of letters needed for the answer. This immediately narrows down the possibilities significantly.
- Utilize Intersecting Words: The most crucial tip! Use the letters you've already filled in from crossing words to confirm or eliminate potential answers for "rival."
- Consider Nuances of Synonyms: While "foe," "enemy," and "opponent" are all synonyms for "rival," some puzzles might subtly hint at a specific nuance. For instance, "arch-rival" might lead to a longer, more specific word like NEMESIS.
- Think About Common Crossword Patterns: Some words are simply more common in crosswords due to their letter patterns. Practice helps you recognize these.
For more advice, visit our page on general crossword strategies.
Frequently Asked Questions
Why do some crossword clues have multiple answers for 'rival'?
Crossword clues often have multiple valid answers due to the richness of the English language and the various synonyms available. For 'rival', words like 'foe', 'enemy', 'opponent', or 'competitor' all fit the general meaning, but the specific answer depends on the number of letters required and the intersecting letters from other clues.
How can I quickly find the right 'rival' answer when stuck?
To quickly find the right 'rival' answer, first check the letter count you need. Then, consider any letters you've already filled in from intersecting words. Finally, think about the specific nuance of the clue; sometimes 'rival' might imply a specific type of antagonist.
Are 'rival' and 'opponent' always interchangeable in crosswords?
While 'rival' and 'opponent' are often interchangeable, 'rival' typically implies a more long-standing, personal, or competitive relationship, whereas 'opponent' can simply refer to someone on the opposing side in a single contest or argument. In crosswords, 'opponent' is a common direct synonym for 'rival', but context can sometimes differentiate.