crossword clue witticism – All Crossword Answers
Welcome to Crosswordanswer.co.uk! This page is dedicated to helping you find the perfect solution for the crossword clue "witticism". We provide a comprehensive list of answers, sorted by length, along with clear explanations to help you complete your puzzle with ease.
Solutions for "crossword clue witticism" by Letter Count
3 Letters
WIT: A quick, clever, and amusing verbal expression or a person skilled in such expressions.
4 Letters
JOKE: Something said or done to evoke laughter, often involving a witticism or a humorous story.
QUIP: A clever, humorous, or sarcastic remark, often made quickly.
5 Letters
SALLY: A clever or witty remark or riposte, often spontaneous and spirited.
6 Letters
BONMOT: A witty remark or saying, typically a clever and well-expressed one (from French for 'good word').
7 Letters
EPIGRAM: A terse, witty, and often paradoxical saying or remark, typically in verse.
More About "crossword clue witticism"
A witticism is more than just a funny statement; it's a display of cleverness and mental agility. It involves a sharp intellect, often playing with words, concepts, or unexpected twists of thought to create an amusing or insightful observation. In crosswords, clues like "witticism" demand solvers to think about not just humor, but also the brevity, cleverness, and verbal dexterity implied by the word.
Historically, wits were highly prized in society, from ancient philosophers to court jesters and literary figures. A well-placed witticism can lighten a serious mood, highlight an absurdity, or deliver a profound truth in a memorable way. Understanding this nuance is key to solving related crossword clues, as it helps distinguish between broad terms for humor and more specific terms for clever verbal expressions.
When you encounter 'witticism' in a crossword, consider the context of the puzzle, the length of the answer required, and the specific dictionary definition. Some synonyms like 'jest' or 'joke' might be too broad, while 'epigram' or 'bonmot' provide the precise blend of cleverness and conciseness inherent in a true witticism.
Tips For Your Next Puzzle
Solving crossword puzzles, especially those with nuanced clues like "witticism," can be a rewarding challenge. Here are some tips to sharpen your skills:
- Analyze Wordplay: Many witticism-related clues might involve puns, double meanings, or clever wordplay. Look for subtle hints within the clue itself that suggest a play on words rather than a direct definition.
- Consider Letter Length: Always refer to the number of letters in the answer first. This is your most powerful filter. If you have "witticism" and a 3-letter slot, "WIT" is a strong contender. For 7 letters, "EPIGRAM" becomes plausible.
- Think Synonyms and Related Concepts: Beyond direct synonyms, consider concepts associated with witticisms: cleverness, sharpness, brevity, humor, and specific forms like proverbs or one-liners. Broaden your mental thesaurus.
- Check Cross-References: If you've filled in intersecting words, use those letters as a strong guide. Sometimes, just one confirmed letter can unlock a previously baffling clue like "witticism."
For more advice, visit our page on general crossword strategies.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the most common length for a 'witticism' answer in crosswords?
Answers for 'witticism' can vary significantly. Common short answers include 'WIT' (3 letters) or 'JOKE' (4 letters). Longer answers like 'EPIGRAM' (7 letters) are also possible, depending on the puzzle's specific needs.
How does 'witticism' differ from 'humor' in a crossword context?
While related, 'witticism' specifically refers to a clever, often sharp and concise, remark or saying. 'Humor' is a broader term encompassing anything that causes amusement. In crosswords, 'witticism' clues usually point to a specific type of clever verbal expression, whereas 'humor' might lead to words like 'COMEDY' or 'FUN'.
Can 'SALLY' be an answer for 'witticism'?
Yes, 'SALLY' can indeed be an answer for 'witticism'. Beyond its more common meaning of a sudden attack or outing, 'sally' can also refer to a sudden burst of activity, emotion, or, pertinently, a clever and witty remark or repartee.