customs crossword clue – All Crossword Answers
Welcome to Crosswordanswer.co.uk! If you're stuck on the "customs crossword clue," you've come to the right place. We provide all possible solutions categorized by letter count, along with detailed explanations to help you understand why each answer fits. Find the perfect word to complete your puzzle here!
Solutions for "customs crossword clue" by Letter Count
5 Letters
RITES: Established ceremonies or traditional practices.
USAGE: The customary way of doing something, or the customary manner in which a language is spoken or written.
6 Letters
HABITS: Regular practices or tendencies, often ingrained behaviors of an individual or group.
DUTIES: Taxes or tariffs levied on imports or exports, typically collected by government customs agencies.
7 Letters
TARIFFS: A tax or duty to be paid on a particular class of imports or exports.
8 Letters
FOLKWAYS: The traditional behavior or way of life of a particular community or group of people.
More About "customs crossword clue"
"Customs" is a classic crossword clue that often trips up solvers due to its dual meanings. On one hand, it refers to the established practices, traditions, and ways of behaving within a society or group. This includes everything from holiday rituals to polite etiquette. Answers like RITES, HABITS, USAGE, and FOLKWAYS fall into this category, focusing on the cultural and behavioral aspects.
On the other hand, "customs" also refers to the government department that collects taxes on goods entering and leaving a country, and the taxes themselves. This meaning relates to international trade and border control, where terms like DUTIES and TARIFFS become relevant. Crossword constructors love to play on this ambiguity, so always consider the context of the surrounding clues and the number of letters required to determine which meaning is intended.
Understanding both facets of the word "customs" is key to successfully tackling this clue. If the clue hints at ancient practices, societal norms, or personal routines, think cultural. If it suggests imports, borders, or taxes, think fiscal. This deliberate duality makes "customs" a challenging yet rewarding clue to solve, enhancing your appreciation for the cleverness of crossword design.
Tips For Your Next Puzzle
- Analyze the Clue's Nuance: For a clue like "customs," pay close attention to any subtle hints. Is it plural? Does it imply tradition or taxation? Look for keywords that steer you towards one meaning over another.
- Consider Letter Count Carefully: The number of letters is often your strongest guide. If you have "5 letters" for "customs," RITES or USAGE might be possibilities, but not FOLKWAYS. This narrows down the options significantly.
- Check Intersecting Letters: Use the letters you've already filled in from intersecting words. These will confirm or rule out potential answers, especially for ambiguous clues like "customs" with multiple valid interpretations.
- Think Synonyms and Related Concepts: Brainstorm synonyms for both meanings of "customs." For traditions: norms, practices, rituals, conventions. For border control: tariffs, duties, excise, levy. This broadens your mental dictionary.
For more advice, visit our page on general crossword strategies.
Frequently Asked Questions
What are the different meanings of 'customs' in crosswords?
In crosswords, 'customs' can refer to established practices or traditions (e.g., RITES, HABITS, USAGE, FOLKWAYS) or to the official department that collects taxes on imports/exports (e.g., DUTIES, TARIFFS, BORDER CONTROL).
How can I distinguish between 'customs' as traditions and 'customs' as duties?
Context is key! Look at other words in the clue. If it mentions 'traditions,' 'rituals,' or 'social norms,' think of RITES or HABITS. If it mentions 'imports,' 'borders,' or 'taxes,' consider DUTIES or TARIFFS. The letter count can also narrow down possibilities.
Why are 'customs' clues often tricky?
'Customs' is tricky due to its two distinct primary meanings: social practices and border taxation. Constructors often exploit this ambiguity. Always consider both interpretations when encountering this clue.