deliberate clue crossword clue – All Crossword Answers
Welcome to Crosswordanswer.co.uk! If you're stuck on the clue "deliberate clue", you've come to the right place. We provide a comprehensive list of possible answers, sorted by letter count, along with helpful explanations to guide you to the correct solution. Let's solve your puzzle together!
Solutions for "deliberate clue crossword clue" by Letter Count
4 Letters
HINT: A subtle suggestion or indication, often used in crossword clues to guide to the answer without explicitly stating it.
7 Letters
POINTER: A piece of advice or an indication that directs one towards a solution.
8 Letters
INNUENDO: An allusive or oblique remark, typically a disparaging one, used sometimes in cryptic clues to deliberately suggest something indirectly.
11 Letters
INSINUATION: An indirect or oblique suggestion, especially a derogatory one, which fits the 'deliberate but indirect' nature of the clue.
More About "deliberate clue crossword clue"
The term "deliberate clue" in crosswords points to the intentional crafting by the puzzle setter to guide the solver in a specific, often indirect, manner. Unlike straightforward definitions, these clues require a deeper level of thought, inviting you to explore wordplay, double meanings, or contextual interpretations. They are the setter's way of making the puzzle more engaging and challenging, moving beyond simple vocabulary recall.
Such clues are hallmarks of well-designed crosswords, distinguishing them from basic word lists. They might hint at a solution through a synonym in disguise, an anagram concealed within the phrasing, or even by suggesting a homophone. Understanding the setter's "deliberate" intent is key to unlocking these answers, as it often involves looking past the obvious and considering the nuances of language.
Whether it's a subtle suggestion, an indirect reference, or a cleverly disguised instruction, a "deliberate clue" encourages solvers to engage with the puzzle on a more intricate level. Mastering these types of clues significantly enhances your crossword-solving abilities, turning what might seem like a roadblock into a rewarding intellectual exercise.
Tips For Your Next Puzzle
- Analyze the Wording: Pay close attention to every word in the clue. Sometimes, a single word like "suggests," "implies," or "might be" signals a more deliberate, less direct answer.
- Consider Multiple Meanings: Many deliberate clues play on words with multiple definitions. Think about all possible interpretations of the words in the clue, not just the most common ones.
- Look for Wordplay Indicators: If it's a cryptic crossword, clues for anagrams, reversals, hidden words, or homophones often have specific indicators. Recognizing these helps decipher the setter's deliberate method.
- Check Cross-References: If a clue seems particularly tricky, look at the letters you've already filled in from intersecting words. These can provide crucial starting points or confirm an educated guess.
- Don't Be Afraid to Leave and Return: Sometimes, stepping away from a difficult clue and coming back to it later can give you a fresh perspective and help you spot the deliberate trick.
For more advice, visit our page on general crossword strategies.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is a 'deliberate clue' in crosswords?
In crosswords, a 'deliberate clue' often refers to a clue that is intentionally vague, indirect, or suggestive rather than direct. It's designed to make you think laterally or consider multiple meanings of words to arrive at the solution. These clues might 'deliberately' mislead or require a deeper understanding of wordplay, like puns, anagrams, or double meanings.
How can I identify a deliberate clue?
Identifying a deliberate clue often involves looking for certain patterns. They might use evocative language, suggest hidden meanings, or play on homophones. Cryptic crossword clues are often inherently 'deliberate' in their complex wordplay. Non-cryptic puzzles might use them for a bit of a challenge, perhaps with a word like 'suggests' or 'implies' in the clue itself.
Are there different types of deliberate clues?
Yes, deliberate clues can manifest in various forms. They can be subtle hints for a direct answer, cryptic definitions that require decoding, or even red herrings designed to send solvers down the wrong path initially. The 'deliberate' aspect comes from the setter's intention to guide (or misguide) the solver in a particular, indirect way.