expat crossword clue – All Crossword Answers
Welcome to Crosswordanswer.co.uk! If you're tackling the clue "expat crossword clue" and need a helping hand, you've come to the right place. Below, you'll find a comprehensive list of potential answers, categorized by letter count, along with clear explanations to help you complete your puzzle with ease.
Solutions for "expat crossword clue" by Letter Count
5 Letters
ALIEN: A foreign-born resident who is not a citizen of the country they reside in.
6 Letters
EMIGRE: One who has left their country to settle in another.
7 Letters
MIGRANT: A person who moves from one place to another, especially in order to find work or better living conditions, which can include expats.
9 Letters
SOJOURNER: A person who resides temporarily in a place, fitting the transient nature of some expat experiences.
More About "expat crossword clue"
The term "expat" is a contraction of "expatriate," referring to an individual residing in a country other than their native country. Crossword setters often use this clue to test solvers' knowledge of synonyms and related concepts that describe someone living abroad. While it can imply a wide range of situations—from temporary assignments to permanent relocation—the essence is always about being away from one's homeland.
When "expat" appears as a clue, the answers can vary greatly depending on the nuance the setter intends. It might focus on legal status (like ALIEN), the act of leaving (like EMIGRE), or simply the state of residing elsewhere. It's crucial to consider not just direct synonyms, but also terms that describe the experience or status of an individual living away from home, as crosswords love to play on these subtle distinctions.
Tips For Your Next Puzzle
- Consider the Letter Count: For clues like "expat," the number of letters is paramount. Different words like ALIEN, EMIGRE, or SOJOURNER fit distinct lengths. Always check the grid first!
- Look for Contextual Clues: Sometimes, the surrounding clues or a cryptic hint within the "expat" clue itself can point to a specific type of expatriate (e.g., "political expat" might suggest EMIGRE more strongly than a general "expat").
- Brainstorm Related Terms: Think beyond direct synonyms. Consider words associated with foreign residency, travel, or displacement. Words like FOREIGNER, REFUGEE (if the context allows), or even phrases like "resident abroad" can spark ideas for a fit.
- Check for Wordplay: Many crossword clues, even seemingly straightforward ones like "expat," can involve anagrams, puns, or hidden words. If direct answers aren't fitting, consider if there's a linguistic twist.
For more advice, visit our page on general crossword strategies.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is an expat in crossword terms?
In crosswords, an "expat" clue often refers to a person living outside their native country, covering terms like EMIGRE, ALIEN, MIGRANT, or even phrases implying living ABROAD. The context and letter count are key to finding the precise answer.
How can the number of letters help solve "expat" clues?
The letter count is critical because "expat" can have answers ranging from 5-letter words like ALIEN or EXILE to longer ones like SOJOURNER (9 letters) or NONRESIDENT (11 letters). Knowing the required length immediately narrows down possibilities significantly.
Are "immigrant" and "expat" the same for crosswords?
While related, "immigrant" and "expat" are generally distinct in crosswords. "Immigrant" usually implies a permanent move with intent for citizenship, often from a less developed to a more developed country. "Expat" often suggests a temporary, chosen move, sometimes for work, with the possibility of returning. However, in broader contexts, they can sometimes overlap, so always consider the specific clue's nuance.