dubious crossword clue – All Crossword Answers
Welcome to Crosswordanswer.co.uk! If you're struggling with the clue "dubious crossword clue", you've come to the right place. We provide a comprehensive list of possible answers, sorted by letter count, along with clear explanations to help you complete your puzzle with ease.
Solutions for "dubious crossword clue" by Letter Count
5 Letters
FISHY: Suggesting something is suspicious or questionable, often implying a lack of trustworthiness.
SHADY: Implies a dubious or disreputable character, often associated with secretive or illicit activities.
DODGY: Colloquial for unreliable, risky, or suspect, often used to describe something of questionable quality or safety.
7 Letters
SUSPECT: Under suspicion; likely not true or genuine, or a person believed to be involved in a crime.
8 Letters
DOUBTFUL: Arousing feelings of uncertainty or suspicion, indicating something is unlikely to be true or happen.
10 Letters
UNRELIABLE: Not able to be relied upon, whether it's a person, information, or a system; prone to failure or deception.
More About "dubious crossword clue"
"Dubious" as a crossword clue often probes synonyms related to uncertainty, suspicion, or lack of trustworthiness. The beauty of such clues lies in their versatility; a single word can have multiple answers depending on the specific nuance the crossword setter intends. Common answers like FISHY or SHADY immediately spring to mind, painting a picture of something amiss or untrustworthy. These terms are frequently used in everyday language, making them popular choices for setters aiming for accessible yet engaging puzzles.
However, "dubious" can also lead to more formal or longer words such as UNRELIABLE or DOUBTFUL. The choice of answer often hinges on the number of letters provided in the grid and the context implied by other intersecting words. It’s a classic example of how crosswords test not just your vocabulary, but also your ability to discern subtle differences in meaning and apply them within the constraints of the puzzle.
When encountering "dubious," consider the overall theme of the puzzle. Is it a lighthearted and witty clue, suggesting a common idiom, or is it part of a more serious, intricate wordplay? Understanding this context can significantly narrow down the possibilities and guide you towards the correct, often satisfying, solution.
Tips For Your Next Puzzle
- Count Your Letters Carefully: Always start by counting the available spaces in the crossword grid. This is the most crucial filter for potential answers to a clue like "dubious."
- Consider Synonyms and Antonyms: For "dubious," think of words that mean similar things (suspicious, questionable) but also consider if the clue might be a trick, hinting at an antonym if paired with another word (e.g., "not dubious").
- Look for Common Crossword Puns/Idioms: Sometimes, "dubious" might be part of a larger phrase or a pun. Keep an eye out for wordplay, especially in cryptic crosswords.
- Check Intersecting Clues: The letters from other already-solved clues are your best friends. They provide vital anchors that confirm or deny your potential "dubious" answers.
For more advice, visit our page on general crossword strategies.
Frequently Asked Questions
What does "dubious" mean in a crossword context?
In crosswords, "dubious" typically points to answers like FISHY, SHADY, DODGY, or words implying something is questionable, suspicious, or not to be trusted. It often suggests a sense of uncertainty or unreliability.
Are there common word patterns for "dubious" clues?
Clues for "dubious" often lead to shorter, common synonyms (e.g., FISHY, SHADY). However, depending on the puzzle's difficulty and setter, it can also involve longer, more formal words like UNRELIABLE or QUESTIONABLE. Pay attention to the number of letters required.
How can I confirm a "dubious" answer in my crossword?
The best way to confirm a "dubious" answer is by checking for intersecting letters with other solved clues. Also, consider the specific nuance of the clue's wording – does it imply untrustworthiness, unlikelihood, or uncertainty? This can help differentiate between similar synonyms.