crossword spell – All Crossword Answers
Welcome to Crosswordanswer.co.uk! Here you'll find all possible solutions and detailed explanations for the crossword clue "crossword spell". We've gathered answers of all lengths to help you complete your puzzle with ease.
Solutions for "crossword spell" by Letter Count
3 Letters
HEX: A malicious enchantment or a period of bad luck.
4 Letters
JINX: A state or period of bad luck, or to cast an evil spell upon.
5 Letters
CHARM: A magical spell, or a small object worn for good luck.
CURSE: An imprecation or oath invoking divine vengeance, or a cause of great trouble.
MAGIC: The power of apparently influencing events by using mysterious or supernatural forces.
SPELL: To name the letters of a word; also, a form of words used as a magical charm or incantation.
7 Letters
CANTRIP: A trivial or harmless magical spell.
ENCHANT: To fill (someone) with great delight; charm. Also, to put under a magic spell.
11 Letters
INCANTATION: A series of words used as a magical charm or to cast a spell.
More About "crossword spell"
The clue "crossword spell" is a classic example of how crossword setters use wordplay and ambiguity to challenge solvers. The word "spell" carries two primary meanings: a magical incantation or charm, and the act of forming words by naming or writing their letters. This duality makes it a fascinating and sometimes tricky clue to encounter.
When you see "spell" in a crossword, your first step should be to consider the context provided by other words in the clue. Is it hinting at fantasy, witchcraft, or ancient rituals? Or is it referring to grammar, vocabulary, or linguistic precision? The surrounding words are your best guide to determining which interpretation is intended.
Our comprehensive list above provides answers covering both interpretations, from short words like HEX and JINX, often linked to bad luck or minor enchantments, to longer terms like INCANTATION, which clearly points to the magical realm. Understanding these nuances is crucial for becoming a skilled crossword solver.
Tips For Your Next Puzzle
- Analyze the Clue's Nuance: For words like 'spell' with multiple meanings, always consider which interpretation fits the surrounding theme or other solved letters in the grid.
- Think Synonyms and Antonyms: If a direct answer isn't obvious, brainstorm synonyms or even antonyms that might fit the clue's underlying meaning or a common crossword trick.
- Check Letter Count: The number of letters required for the answer is your most concrete hint. Use it to narrow down possibilities quickly.
- Practice with Puns and Wordplay: Many crossword clues rely on puns, homophones, and double meanings. The more you expose yourself to these, the better you'll become at recognizing them.
For more advice, visit our page on general crossword strategies.
Frequently Asked Questions
What does "crossword spell" usually mean?
The clue "crossword spell" can have a dual meaning, often playing on the word 'spell'. It can refer to a magical incantation or charm, but equally, it can refer to the act of writing or naming the letters of a word, as in 'how do you spell that word?' Crossword setters frequently use this ambiguity.
How do I identify if a clue refers to 'magic' vs. 'letters'?
Context is key. Look for other words in the clue that hint at magic (e.g., 'charm', 'hex', 'wizardry') or at language/words (e.g., 'letters', 'word form', 'pronunciation'). The length of the answer can also sometimes provide a hint, though this is less reliable.
Are there common synonyms for 'spell' in crosswords?
Yes, common synonyms for the 'magical' sense of spell include CHARM, HEX, JINX, CURSE, MAGIC, and INCANTATION. For the 'phonetic' sense, clues might lead to answers related to words or letters, though 'SPELL' itself is often the direct answer.