crossword clue spill the beans – All Crossword Answers
Welcome to Crosswordanswer.co.uk! You've landed on the perfect page if you're looking for solutions to the clue "spill the beans." We provide all possible answers, organized by letter count, along with helpful explanations to get you unstuck and improve your puzzle-solving skills.
Solutions for "crossword clue spill the beans" by Letter Count
4 Letters
TELL: To communicate information, often secrets, directly.
BLAB: To reveal secrets carelessly or indiscreetly.
6 Letters
REVEAL: To make known something previously unknown or secret.
GOSSIP: Casual or unconstrained conversation or reports about other people, typically involving details that are not confirmed as true.
7 Letters
DIVULGE: To make known (private or sensitive information).
CONFESS: To admit that one has committed a crime or done something wrong.
8 Letters
DISCLOSE: To make (secret or new information) known.
More About "crossword clue spill the beans"
The idiom "spill the beans" is a lively and common phrase that refers to revealing a secret or disclosing confidential information, often unintentionally. Its origin is debated but some theories link it to ancient Greek voting methods where beans were used to cast votes; accidentally spilling them would reveal the outcome prematurely. In crosswords, this clue often signals an answer related to revelation, confession, or making something known.
When you encounter "spill the beans" in a crossword, think of direct synonyms or actions that lead to information becoming public. The constructor might be looking for a single word that captures the essence of the phrase, ranging from short, direct verbs to more formal terms. Considering the context of the puzzle – whether it leans towards casual language or more formal diction – can also help narrow down the possibilities.
This clue is popular because of its idiomatic nature, allowing for a variety of answers depending on the nuance of 'revealing' that the puzzle setter intends. Always double-check the number of letters required and any intersecting letters to confirm your chosen solution. Good luck cracking your next puzzle!
Tips For Your Next Puzzle
- Context is King: Always consider the overall theme or tone of the crossword puzzle. Is it a quick daily puzzle or a more challenging cryptic one? This can influence the type of answer expected for a clue like "spill the beans."
- Check Intersecting Letters: The most crucial tip for any crossword clue. If you have some letters filled in from other clues, use them as vital hints to narrow down the potential answers for "spill the beans."
- Think Synonyms and Antonyms: For idiomatic clues, brainstorm direct synonyms for the core meaning (to reveal, to tell) and sometimes even antonyms if the clue is framed ironically or as a wordplay.
- Vary Your Vocabulary: Crossword setters love to use words from different registers – from slang to highly formal terms. Keep a broad vocabulary in mind for clues that have many possible synonyms.
For more advice, visit our page on general crossword strategies.
Frequently Asked Questions
What does the idiom "spill the beans" mean in everyday language?
"Spill the beans" is an idiom meaning to reveal a secret or to accidentally disclose information that was supposed to be kept confidential. It often implies a sudden or unplanned revelation.
Are there other common crossword clues similar to "spill the beans"?
Yes, clues that imply revealing information include "divulge," "tell all," "let slip," "confess," "make public," or "uncover." Crossword constructors often use synonyms or phrases with similar meanings.
How can I figure out the letter count for "spill the beans" in a crossword?
The letter count is provided in the crossword grid itself. If the clue "spill the beans" leads to a 6-letter answer, you'd look for a word like REVEAL or GOSSIP. If it's 7 letters, DIVULGE or CONFESS would fit. Always match your potential answer to the specific length given in the puzzle grid.