curious crossword clue – All Crossword Answers
Welcome to Crosswordanswer.co.uk! If you're tackling a puzzle and came across the clue "curious," you're in the right place. We've compiled all the possible answers for this clue, categorized by their letter count, along with helpful explanations to get you unstuck and back to enjoying your crossword.
Solutions for "curious crossword clue" by Letter Count
3 Letters
ODD: Different from what is usual or expected; strange or peculiar.
4 Letters
NOSY: Having or showing too great a curiosity about the affairs of others.
7 Letters
STRANGE: Unusual or surprising in a way that is unsettling or hard to understand.
UNUSUAL: Not habitually or commonly occurring or done.
8 Letters
PECULIAR: Different to what is normal or expected; strange.
11 Letters
INQUISITIVE: Having or showing an inquiring mind; curious or questioning.
More About "curious crossword clue"
"Curious" is a wonderfully versatile word that crossword setters love to use, precisely because it has a dual nature. On one hand, it describes a person who is eager to learn or know things, often leading to answers like INQUISITIVE or NOSY. This aspect highlights a characteristic of personality or behavior. A "curious mind" seeks out information, asks questions, and delves deeper.
On the other hand, "curious" can describe something that is unusual, strange, or even perplexing. When used in this context, it points to an anomaly or something out of the ordinary. This can lead to solutions such as ODD, STRANGE, or PECULIAR. The key to solving "curious" clues lies in discerning which interpretation the puzzle setter intends, often by looking at the number of letters required or intersecting words.
Understanding this duality is crucial for successful crossword solving. Always consider both facets of the word when encountering "curious" in a clue. By doing so, you significantly increase your chances of finding the correct answer and avoiding common pitfalls.
Tips For Your Next Puzzle
- Consider Dual Meanings: As with "curious," many words in crosswords have multiple meanings. Always think about all possible interpretations of a clue, not just the most common one.
- Check Letter Count First: The number of letters is your most powerful hint. Eliminate answers that don't fit the length, then focus on synonyms that do.
- Look at Intersecting Words: If you have a few letters from crossing answers, they can significantly narrow down the possibilities for your "curious" clue. Use those known letters to your advantage.
- Think About Context: Is the puzzle themed? Is it a quick daily cryptic or a longer, more complex one? The style of the crossword can sometimes hint at the type of wordplay being used.
For more advice, visit our page on general crossword strategies.
Frequently Asked Questions
What does 'curious' typically mean in a crossword clue?
In crosswords, 'curious' can refer to someone who is eager to know or learn things (like INQUISITIVE or NOSY), or it can refer to something unusual or strange (like ODD, STRANGE, or PECULIAR). The specific context of the puzzle, such as surrounding letters or the grid structure, often helps differentiate.
How can I quickly find answers for 'curious' in a crossword?
To quickly find answers for 'curious', consider the number of letters in the blank space. Start by thinking of common synonyms for both 'eager to know' and 'unusual'. Websites like Crosswordanswer.co.uk provide lists of answers by length, which can speed up your search significantly.
Are there common tricks for clues like 'curious'?
Yes, for clues like 'curious', setters often play on its dual meaning. Be aware of both the 'prying' aspect and the 'unusual' aspect. Sometimes, the clue might be a partial anagram or a play on words, so always consider indirect meanings if a direct synonym doesn't fit.