cunning crossword puzzle clue – All Crossword Answers
Welcome to Crosswordanswer.co.uk! Below you'll find comprehensive solutions and explanations for the crossword clue "cunning crossword puzzle clue." We provide answers categorized by letter count to help you quickly complete your puzzle.
Solutions for "cunning crossword puzzle clue" by Letter Count
3 Letters
SLY: Suggests a subtle and clever way of achieving something, often deceitful.
4 Letters
WILY: Implies being skilled at gaining an advantage, especially deceitfully.
6 Letters
ASTUTE: Characterized by shrewdness and an ability to accurately assess situations or people and turn this to one's advantage.
CRAFTY: Skillful in deception or trickery; artful.
More About "cunning crossword puzzle clue"
The term "cunning" is a fascinating and frequently appearing word in crosswords, often hinting at a blend of cleverness and subtle trickery. Depending on the context, it can carry both positive connotations of ingenuity and negative ones of deceit. Crossword setters love this word because it opens up a wide array of synonyms and related concepts for clues, making it a versatile element in puzzle design.
When you encounter a clue related to "cunning," your mind should immediately go to its many close relatives. Words like 'sly', 'wily', 'artful', 'shrewd', 'astute', and 'crafty' are common solutions. The challenge often lies in determining the exact nuance or length required by the puzzle grid. Understanding these synonyms and their slight differences can be key to unlocking the answer.
Furthermore, "cunning" can sometimes refer to a "cunning plan" or a "cunning device," subtly shifting its role from an adjective describing a trait to a noun referring to the quality itself or an intricate object. Paying attention to the grammatical context of the clue is therefore crucial; is the puzzle asking for a description or a thing?
Tips For Your Next Puzzle
- Expand Your Vocabulary: "Cunning" has many synonyms. Knowing words like 'sly', 'wily', 'astute', 'shrewd', and 'crafty' will greatly aid you in similar clues. Make a habit of noting down new synonyms you encounter.
- Analyze the Part of Speech: Is the clue looking for a noun (e.g., "guile") or an adjective (e.g., "sly")? "Cunning" can be both, so the context provided by the clue's wording is vital. Look for articles, verbs, or prepositions that might hint at the required part of speech.
- Utilize Given Letters: If you have a few letters already filled in from intersecting words, use them strategically. These letters can significantly narrow down the possible synonyms for "cunning," helping you identify the precise answer needed.
For more advice, visit our page on general crossword strategies.
Frequently Asked Questions
What are common synonyms for 'cunning' in crosswords?
Common synonyms for 'cunning' found in crosswords include SLY, WILY, ASTUTE, SHREWD, ARTFUL, and CRAFTY, among others.
Can 'cunning' ever be a noun answer in a crossword?
Yes, while primarily an adjective, 'cunning' can also function as a noun, referring to skill in deception or trickery itself, or even the quality of being cunning. However, clues for it as a noun are less frequent than those for its adjective forms.
How do I know if a 'cunning' clue refers to a person or an action?
Pay close attention to the grammar and context of the clue. If it's 'A cunning fellow,' it's likely an adjective describing a person. If it's 'Skillful deception,' it might hint at the noun 'cunning' or 'guile.' Always consider the part of speech indicated by the clue.