crossword clue state – All Crossword Answers
Welcome to Crosswordanswer.co.uk! If you're tackling a puzzle and the clue is "state," you've come to the right place. This versatile word can have many meanings in crosswords, from political entities to conditions or actions. Below, you'll find a comprehensive list of solutions categorized by letter count, along with explanations to help you complete your crossword with ease.
Solutions for "crossword clue state" by Letter Count
4 Letters
OHIO: A Midwestern U.S. state, capital Columbus. Often used when the clue refers to a specific American state.
5 Letters
UTTER: To speak or express verbally; to declare. As in, "to state an opinion."
TEXAS: A large Southern U.S. state, capital Austin. A very common U.S. state in crosswords.
6 Letters
NATION: A sovereign country or organized political community. Directly refers to a 'state' as in a nation-state.
STATUS: A position or rank relative to others; a state of being. Can refer to one's condition or standing.
7 Letters
DECLARE: To make known formally or explicitly; to assert. Synonymous with 'to state' something clearly or officially.
9 Letters
CONDITION: A particular situation or set of circumstances. Commonly used to describe a 'state of being' or a current 'state'.
More About "crossword clue state"
The clue "state" is a classic example of a crossword setter's favorite type of word: one with multiple meanings. This allows for diverse answers depending on the context the setter intends. It could be a noun referring to a geographical area (like a U.S. state), a political entity (a nation), or a condition (a state of affairs). Alternatively, it could be a verb, meaning "to say" or "to declare."
Understanding these different facets is key to solving such clues. For instance, if the clue hints at a place, you might be looking for "OHIO" or "TEXAS." If it suggests a feeling or situation, "CONDITION" or "STATUS" might be the answer. And if it implies an action, words like "UTTER" or "DECLARE" come into play. Always consider the surrounding letters and the overall theme of the puzzle.
Our goal at Crosswordanswer.co.uk is to provide you with all possible interpretations and solutions, ensuring you're never stuck on a clue as versatile as "state" again. We break down the possibilities by length, giving you a clear path to completing your crossword.
Tips For Your Next Puzzle
- Context is King: For clues like "state," always look at the surrounding clues and the puzzle's theme. Is it a geographical puzzle? A verb-focused one? The context will often point you in the right direction.
- Check Letter Count: The number of letters is your most crucial hint. It immediately eliminates many possibilities. For "state," if you need 4 letters, "OHIO" is a strong candidate, but "CONDITION" is out.
- Consider Synonyms and Homonyms: Think broadly about synonyms for each meaning of "state." Also, consider words that sound like "state" but have different meanings if the puzzle is playing with wordplay.
- Utilize Cross-References: Don't force an answer. If you're unsure, try solving intersecting clues first. The letters you fill in will confirm or refute your initial thoughts for "state."
For more advice, visit our page on general crossword strategies.
Frequently Asked Questions
Why does "state" have so many different answers in crosswords?
The word "state" is highly polysemous, meaning it has multiple distinct meanings. It can refer to a condition (e.g., state of mind), a sovereign political entity (a nation-state), a verb (to state an opinion), or a specific U.S. state. This versatility makes it a common yet challenging crossword clue.
How can I narrow down answers for clues like "state"?
Look at the number of letters required and any intersecting letters you already have. The surrounding clues might also provide context, hinting whether it's referring to a condition, a verb, or a geographical location. Consider if the clue uses a specific article (e.g., 'The State of...') or implies an action.
Are U.S. states common answers for "state" clues?
Yes, U.S. states are very common answers for clues involving the word "state," especially when combined with a specific letter count or other context (e.g., 'Bayou State' for LOUISIANA). Shorter U.S. states like OHIO, UTAH, or IOWA are particularly popular due to their versatility in grid filling.