flag crossword puzzle clue – All Crossword Answers
Welcome to Crosswordanswer.co.uk! Below you'll find comprehensive solutions and explanations for the crossword clue "flag crossword puzzle clue," organized by letter count to help you quickly pinpoint the correct answer for your puzzle.
Solutions for "flag crossword puzzle clue" by Letter Count
4 Letters
WAVE: As a verb, to move a flag or to signal using a flag.
MARK: To flag something often means to mark it for attention or special notice.
5 Letters
PLANT: As in to 'plant a flag', meaning to establish a presence or claim.
STAFF: The pole on which a flag is flown.
6 Letters
BANNER: A type of flag, often rectangular, bearing a symbol, logo, slogan, or other message.
ENSIGN: A flag or standard, especially a military or naval one indicating nationality.
SIGNAL: To use a flag to convey information or a command.
PENNON: A long, narrow, tapering flag, often used on ships.
7 Letters
PENNANT: A long, narrow flag, typically tapering to a point or swallowtail.
BUNTING: Decorative flags or strips of cloth, often used for celebrations.
8 Letters
STANDARD: A military or ceremonial flag; a distinctive emblem.
More About "flag crossword puzzle clue"
Flags are a common and versatile theme in crossword puzzles, often appearing with multiple interpretations. A "flag" can refer to a national emblem, a piece of fabric used for signaling, or even an action verb meaning to mark something for attention, or to indicate a decrease in strength or enthusiasm. Crossword setters love this ambiguity. When you see "flag" in a clue, it's crucial to consider its various contexts and meanings to solve the puzzle effectively.
The beauty of such a clue lies in its ability to challenge your vocabulary and understanding of word nuances. The term can be a noun (referring to the object itself, like a banner or ensign), or a verb (describing an action, such as to signal, mark, or even droop). Identifying which part of speech the clue implies is often the first step to unlocking the correct answer, requiring careful analysis of the clue's grammar and surrounding words.
Tips For Your Next Puzzle
- Consider all meanings: "Flag" is a prime example of a word with multiple dictionary definitions. Always think beyond the most obvious meaning; explore its less common uses or idiomatic expressions.
- Check the part of speech: Is "flag" acting as a noun (e.g., "country's flag") or a verb (e.g., "to flag down a taxi," "energy begins to flag")? This will greatly narrow down potential answers and guide your search.
- Look at word length: Use the given letter count as your primary filter. If the answer is 4 letters, "BANNER" is out, but "MARK" or "WAVE" are strong possibilities. This instantly eliminates many incorrect options.
- Cross-reference with intersecting words: This is crucial. If you're unsure between two possible answers, see which one fits better with letters from words crossing its path. This is the most reliable way to confirm an answer.
For more advice, visit our page on general crossword strategies.
Frequently Asked Questions
Why does "flag" have so many different answers in crosswords?
The word "flag" is highly polysemous, meaning it has multiple distinct meanings. In crosswords, setters exploit this to create challenging yet fair clues. It can refer to a piece of cloth (like a banner or ensign), an action (to signal, to mark, to droop), or even a type of stone.
How do I know if "flag" refers to a noun or a verb?
The context of the clue is key. Look for articles ("a flag," "the flag"), prepositions (e.g., "flag of a ship"), or verbs that imply an action performed with or by a flag (e.g., "flag down," "flagging energy"). The tense of the clue can also indicate if it's a verb, guiding you to a past, present, or future tense answer.
Are there common prefixes or suffixes associated with "flag" answers?
Not specific prefixes or suffixes directly, but many answers relate to types of flags (e.g., ENSIGN, PENNANT, STANDARD) or actions (e.g., SIGNAL, MARK, WAVE). Sometimes "flag" can be part of a common phrase or idiom, so consider those possibilities if the clue seems particularly complex or abstract.