What are common synonyms for 'unlawful' in crosswords?

Common crossword answers for 'unlawful' include ILLEGAL, ILLICIT, CRIMINAL, and FELONIOUS, depending on the number of letters required and the specific nuance of the clue.

How does context help solve clues like 'unlawful'?

Understanding the precise context of 'unlawful' in the clue is vital. If the clue hints at moral wrongness rather than strictly legal illegality, answers like UNJUST or BANNED might be more appropriate. Always consider the surrounding letters.

Are there different types of 'unlawful' acts typically referenced in crosswords?

Crosswords frequently distinguish between acts that are strictly legally prohibited (e.g., ILLEGAL, FELONIOUS) and those that are simply not allowed or morally incorrect (e.g., ILLICIT, UNJUST). The length of the answer is key to determining which type of 'unlawful' the puzzle is seeking.

crossword clue unlawful – All Crossword Answers

Welcome! If you're looking for answers to the crossword clue "unlawful," you've come to the right place. We provide a comprehensive list of solutions, along with explanations, to help you complete your puzzle quickly and accurately.

Solutions for "crossword clue unlawful" by Letter Count

6 Letters

UNJUST: Not based on or behaving according to what is morally right and fair, often implying a legal or ethical wrong.

BANNED: Officially or legally prohibited; a common way something can be considered unlawful.

7 Letters

ILLEGAL: Not authorized by law; the most direct synonym for unlawful.

ILLICIT: Forbidden by law, rules, or custom, often carrying a connotation of impropriety or moral wrongness.

LAWLESS: Not regulated by law; without legal control or order, fitting the description of unlawful behavior.

8 Letters

CRIMINAL: Relating to or involving a crime; an action that is against the law.

9 Letters

FELONIOUS: Relating to or constituting a felony; a serious crime, thus inherently unlawful.

FORBIDDEN: Not allowed or prohibited; an act that is unlawful due to a ban or restriction.

More About "crossword clue unlawful"

"Unlawful" is a frequently used clue in crosswords, and its meaning can range from something strictly against the law to something merely not permitted or morally wrong. The key to solving it often lies in the number of letters available and the context provided by other clues in the puzzle. Synonyms like ILLEGAL and ILLICIT are direct fits for legal violations, while words like UNJUST or BANNED might apply to broader scenarios of what is not allowed.

Crossword setters love to play with nuances. An 'unlawful' act might be a major felony, requiring an answer like FELONIOUS, or a minor infraction. Always consider if the clue is looking for an adjective describing an act or a noun that represents the act itself (though for 'unlawful', adjectives are most common). Paying attention to the specific legal or ethical implications of the surrounding clues can provide vital hints.

This clue often appears in puzzles because it has a rich set of synonyms of varying lengths, allowing it to fit into many grid layouts. Mastering the different angles of 'unlawful' can significantly boost your crossword solving speed and accuracy.

Tips For Your Next Puzzle

Count the Letters: Always start by checking the number of letters required. This is the single most important piece of information for any crossword clue, especially for synonyms like 'unlawful' that have many possible answers.
Consider Nuances: Does the clue imply a strict legal violation (e.g., crime, felony) or something more generally forbidden or morally wrong? This distinction can guide you to words like CRIMINAL vs. UNJUST.
Look for Cross-References: If 'unlawful' is part of a larger theme or refers to a specific type of law (e.g., 'unlawful entry'), other clues in the puzzle might offer additional hints or confirm your choice.
Think of Antonyms: Sometimes, considering the opposite of 'unlawful' (e.g., lawful, legal, permitted) can help you brainstorm synonyms that are just the reverse.

For more advice, visit our page on general crossword strategies.

Frequently Asked Questions

What's the most common answer for "unlawful" in crosswords?

The most common answers tend to be ILLEGAL and ILLICIT due to their direct synonymy and common letter lengths, but CRIMINAL and FELONIOUS are also very frequent, especially for longer slots.

Can "unlawful" ever mean something not related to crime?

Yes, absolutely. While it often relates to crime, "unlawful" can also refer to something that is simply against rules, regulations, or customs, even if not strictly a criminal offense. Answers like UNJUST or BANNED reflect this broader interpretation.

How do I know if the clue wants a general term or a specific one?

The number of letters is your primary guide. If it's a longer answer (e.g., 9 letters), it might point to a more specific legal term like FELONIOUS. Shorter answers (e.g., 6 letters) often indicate a more general synonym like UNJUST or BANNED. Also, check if other clues in the puzzle have a legal or ethical theme.