elaborate crossword – All Crossword Answers
Welcome to Crosswordanswer.co.uk! If you're looking for solutions to the clue "elaborate crossword", you've come to the right place. We provide accurate answers and detailed explanations to help you complete your puzzle with ease.
Solutions for "elaborate crossword" by Letter Count
5 Letters
FANCY: Describes something ornate or decorated, which can be a synonym for elaborate.
6 Letters
ORNATE: Means highly decorated or intricate, often used synonymously with elaborate.
DETAIL: To elaborate on something means to explain it in detail or provide specifics.
7 Letters
EXPOUND: To explain in detail, often used when elaborating on a theory or idea.
9 Letters
INTRICATE: Highly detailed or complex, a common meaning for elaborate.
More About "elaborate crossword"
The term "elaborate" in a crossword clue can be delightfully versatile, requiring solvers to consider its various meanings. As an adjective, it points towards something highly detailed, complex, or ornately decorated, often leading to answers like INTRICATE or ORNATE. Imagine a beautifully carved piece of furniture; it's elaborate. Similarly, a complex plot in a story could be described as elaborate.
However, "elaborate" also functions as a verb, meaning to explain something in greater detail. This interpretation will guide you towards answers such as EXPOUND or DETAIL. When a speaker is asked to elaborate on a point, they are expected to provide more information or clarification. Recognizing this duality is key to unlocking the correct solution, as the crossword setter relies on this ambiguity to challenge solvers.
Successfully tackling "elaborate" and similar clues often involves assessing the context of the puzzle, including the overall theme or the type of language used by the setter. Paying attention to the word count provided for the answer is also crucial, as it immediately narrows down the possibilities derived from the different meanings of 'elaborate'.
Tips For Your Next Puzzle
- Consider Multiple Meanings: Many crossword clues, like "elaborate", have multiple meanings depending on whether they're used as a noun, verb, or adjective. Always consider all possibilities.
- Use Cross-References: If you're stuck on an 'elaborate' clue, try solving surrounding clues first. The letters filled in from intersecting words can often reveal the correct answer.
- Think Synonyms and Antonyms: Brainstorm a wide range of synonyms for the clue word. Sometimes, the answer is an antonym with a cryptic twist. For 'elaborate', think not just ornate, but also its opposite if the clue hints at it.
- Analyze the Word Length: The number of letters required is a powerful hint. It immediately filters out many potential answers that don't fit the length.
For more advice, visit our page on general crossword strategies.
Frequently Asked Questions
What does 'elaborate' mean in a crossword clue?
'Elaborate' in a crossword clue can refer to several meanings: as a verb, it means to explain in detail (e.g., EXPLAIN, EXPOUND, DETAIL). As an adjective, it means complex, intricate, or highly decorated (e.g., ORNATE, FANCY, INTRICATE). The context of the clue and surrounding letters will help determine the precise meaning.
How do I approach clues that seem complex or 'elaborate'?
When facing a complex clue like 'elaborate', start by considering all possible parts of speech (verb, adjective). Look for synonyms for each meaning. Check for wordplay, anagrams, or hidden words. Use cross-references from already solved letters in the puzzle to narrow down possibilities. Don't be afraid to leave it and come back later with fresh eyes.
Are there different types of elaborate clues?
Yes, 'elaborate' can appear in various clue types. It might be a straightforward definition, a synonym of a complex word, or part of a cryptic clue requiring wordplay. For instance, 'Decorate lavishly' would point to ORNATE, while 'Go into great detail' might lead to EXPOUND. Some puzzles use 'elaborate' to describe the solution itself, suggesting it is a long or intricate word.