descriptive term crossword clue – All Crossword Answers
Welcome to Crosswordanswer.co.uk! Below you'll find comprehensive answers and explanations for the crossword clue "descriptive term," organized by letter count to help you quickly solve your puzzle.
Solutions for "descriptive term crossword clue" by Letter Count
5 Letters
LABEL: A descriptive word or phrase applied to a person, group, or thing.
7 Letters
EPITHET: An adjective or descriptive phrase expressing a quality characteristic of the person or thing mentioned.
9 Letters
ADJECTIVE: A word that describes or modifies a noun or pronoun.
QUALIFIER: A word or phrase, especially an adjective or adverb, that attributes a quality to another word, typically a noun.
10 Letters
DESCRIPTOR: A term that describes or identifies something.
More About "descriptive term crossword clue"
Crossword clues involving a "descriptive term" often delve into the heart of language: words that characterize, define, or elaborate on people, places, or things. These clues can range from simple requests for a common adjective to more nuanced queries for a specific linguistic concept like an epithet or a qualifier. Understanding the various ways terms can describe helps immensely in solving such puzzles.
When you encounter a clue like "descriptive term," think about its function in a sentence. Is it modifying a noun? Is it a name given to someone that highlights a specific trait? Sometimes, the answer isn't a direct synonym but rather a word that describes the *type* of description itself. For instance, "ADJECTIVE" is a descriptive term for a class of words that describe.
The beauty of these clues lies in their ability to test your vocabulary across different linguistic categories. They encourage solvers to not just think about what something is, but also how it is portrayed or identified through language.
Tips For Your Next Puzzle
- Consider Parts of Speech: Many descriptive terms are adjectives, adverbs, or nouns used descriptively. If you have crossing letters, see which part of speech fits best.
- Think of Synonyms for "Describe": Words like 'characterize,' 'label,' 'identify,' or 'qualify' can lead you to related answers.
- Examine Context and Length: If the clue is part of a themed puzzle or hints at a specific category (e.g., literary), narrow your focus. The number of letters is always your most crucial guide.
- Look for Nuance: Some descriptive terms have very specific meanings, like "epithet" (a characterizing word or phrase) or "moniker" (a name or nickname). Pay attention to any subtle hints in the clue.
For more advice, visit our page on general crossword strategies.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is a "descriptive term" in the context of crosswords?
In crosswords, a "descriptive term" clue often points to a word that describes something, such as an adjective, an epithet, a label, or a defining characteristic. It requires you to think about words that add detail or color to a noun.
How do I approach clues that ask for a "descriptive term"?
Start by considering common parts of speech like adjectives and adverbs. Also, think about nouns that function descriptively, like "synonym" or "moniker." Look at the letter count and any crossing letters to narrow down possibilities.
Are there common "descriptive term" answers that often appear in crosswords?
Yes, words like ADJECTIVE, EPITHET, and LABEL are frequent. Sometimes, clues might lead to more specific terms like "euphemism" or "sobriquet" depending on the context. Always consider the precise nuance of the clue.