crossword fling – All Crossword Answers
Welcome! If you're looking for solutions to the clue "crossword fling", you've come to the right place. We provide all possible answers, broken down by letter count, along with helpful explanations to guide you to the correct solution and enhance your crossword-solving skills.
Solutions for "crossword fling" by Letter Count
5 Letters
TRYST: A secret romantic meeting, aligning with 'fling' as a brief affair. This is a common, sometimes misdirecting, interpretation in crosswords.
6 Letters
SPRINT: A short, rapid run or burst of effort. Metaphorically, a quick, intense attempt at something, like a "fling" at a puzzle.
6 Letters
DABBLE: To engage in an activity in a superficial or desultory way. This perfectly captures the sense of a casual or brief "fling" with a crossword.
More About "crossword fling"
The clue "crossword fling" is intriguing because "fling" itself is a word with multiple layers of meaning. In crosswords, setters love to play on these ambiguities. A "fling" can literally mean to throw something, but more commonly, it refers to a brief, casual engagement – either with an activity or a person. When combined with "crossword," it opens up possibilities related to quick attempts at solving, or even a whimsical, brief immersion into a puzzle.
Understanding the setter's intent often requires looking at the overall tone of the puzzle and any surrounding clues. Is the puzzle lighthearted and punny? Then a romantic interpretation like TRYST or AMOUR might be in play. Is it more straightforward? Then a word implying a brief effort like DABBLE or SPRINT would be more fitting. Always consider both the literal and figurative meanings of each word in the clue.
Tips For Your Next Puzzle
- Consider Multiple Meanings: Words like "fling" are often chosen for their polysemy. Always think about all possible interpretations—literal, figurative, and even slang—before settling on an answer.
- Check Letter Count and Intersections: The number of letters and any already-filled intersecting letters are your best friends. They quickly narrow down the possibilities for ambiguous clues.
- Look for Common Crossword Tropes: Crossword setters often reuse certain wordplay techniques. "Fling" frequently points to short-term relationships or brief attempts. Learning these common patterns can significantly speed up your solving time.
For more advice, visit our page on general crossword strategies.
Frequently Asked Questions
What does 'fling' typically mean in crossword clues?
In crosswords, 'fling' can refer to a brief, casual attempt (like 'DABBLE' or 'SPRINT'), or a short, often secret, romantic relationship (like 'TRYST' or 'AMOUR'). The exact interpretation depends heavily on other words in the clue and the puzzle's theme, making it a versatile and sometimes tricky word.
How do I approach clues with ambiguous words like 'fling'?
When a clue has multiple meanings, consider common crossword tropes. Look at the letter count, intersecting letters, and the overall theme of the puzzle for context. Try different interpretations and see which fits the grid and other solved clues. Don't be afraid to think metaphorically or punnily.
Are there other common crossword terms for a 'brief attempt'?
Yes, besides 'DABBLE' or 'SPRINT', you might see words like 'GO', 'SHOT', 'CRACK', or 'TRY' used to indicate a brief attempt or effort in a crossword clue. 'Whim' or 'impulse' can also suggest a spontaneous, brief action.