cunning plan crossword clue – All Crossword Answers
Struggling with "cunning plan" in your crossword? You've come to the right place! We provide all possible answers, clear explanations, and tips to help you complete your puzzle with ease.
Solutions for "cunning plan crossword clue" by Letter Count
4 Letters
PLOY: A clever trick or scheme, often used to gain an advantage. Example: "His surprise attack was a clever PLOY to distract the enemy."
RUSE: An action intended to deceive someone; a trick. Example: "She used a subtle RUSE to get him to reveal the secret."
6 Letters
SCHEME: A large-scale systematic plan or arrangement for attaining some particular object or putting a particular idea into effect. Often implies a secret or devious plan. Example: "They hatched a SCHEME to bypass the security system."
8 Letters
STRATEGY: A plan of action or policy designed to achieve a major or overall aim. More formal and often less devious than a scheme or ploy. Example: "The company developed a new marketing STRATEGY to boost sales."
More About "cunning plan crossword clue"
"Cunning plan" is a popular and intriguing crossword clue because it evokes a wide range of synonyms, each with slightly different nuances. From quick, deceptive tricks to elaborate, long-term blueprints, the possible answers reflect the multifaceted nature of human ingenuity, both for good and ill. Crossword setters love this clue because it allows for flexibility in their grids, accommodating various letter counts depending on the intersecting words.
Understanding the subtle differences between terms like 'ploy', 'ruse', 'scheme', and 'strategy' is crucial for solvers. While all relate to a planned course of action, 'ploy' and 'ruse' typically suggest a more immediate, deceptive trick. 'Scheme' often implies a more detailed, sometimes illicit, plot, and 'strategy' points to a comprehensive, often ethical, plan for a significant objective. The challenge lies in discerning which specific shade of 'cunning plan' the setter intended for that particular puzzle.
When you encounter 'cunning plan' in a crossword, always consider the number of letters first, then look for context within other clues in the puzzle. Sometimes, related words or themes in the puzzle can hint towards the specific type of 'cunning plan' being sought. This clue is a fantastic example of how crosswords test not just vocabulary, but also an understanding of word connotations and real-world application.
Tips For Your Next Puzzle
- Check Letter Count First: Always confirm the number of letters required for the answer before trying to fit words. This immediately narrows down your options for clues like "cunning plan."
- Look at Intersecting Letters: The most reliable way to confirm a crossword answer is by seeing which letters it shares with other words in the grid. If a word fits both its own clue and the intersecting clues, you've likely found the correct solution.
- Consider Connotations: For clues with multiple synonyms, like "cunning plan," think about the exact nuance of the clue. Does it imply trickery (ploy, ruse), a detailed plot (scheme), or a grand design (strategy)?
- Use a Crossword Solver (like us!): If you're truly stuck, don't hesitate to use a reliable crossword solver. It's a great way to learn new words and expand your puzzle-solving skills.
For more advice, visit our page on general crossword strategies.
Frequently Asked Questions
What's the difference between a 'ploy' and a 'ruse' in crosswords?
Both 'ploy' and 'ruse' are 4-letter answers often used for 'cunning plan'. While very similar, a 'ploy' often implies a calculated move to gain an advantage, whereas a 'ruse' more directly suggests an act intended to deceive or mislead someone. In crosswords, they are often interchangeable, so checking intersecting letters is key.
Why do some crossword clues have multiple answers of different lengths?
Many words have synonyms that vary in length, and 'cunning plan' is a prime example. Crossword setters deliberately choose clues that can fit multiple answers to increase the challenge. The specific grid and intersecting letters are designed to lead you to the single correct answer for that particular puzzle.
How can I distinguish 'scheme' from 'strategy' for 'cunning plan'?
'Scheme' (6 letters) and 'strategy' (8 letters) are both plans. 'Scheme' often carries a connotation of being secret or slightly devious, though not always. 'Strategy' typically refers to a broader, more overarching plan, especially in military or business contexts. Contextual clues in the puzzle or the number of letters will guide you.